I Won’t Be Intimidated, Seun Okinbaloye Replies Wike

I Won’t Be Intimidated, Seun Okinbaloye Replies Wike

Seun Okinbaloye, anchor at Channels Television, has vowed not to be cowed following remarks by Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who had allegedly threatened him over comments on Nigeria’s democratic system.

Wike reportedly said he would have “broken his TV screen and shot” Okinbaloye after the journalist warned that a one-party system could undermine democracy in Nigeria.

The statement sparked widespread condemnation, with Amnesty International describing the minister’s language as “reckless and violent.”

Speaking on Sunday, Okinbaloye reaffirmed his stance on democracy and rejected the use of threats or violent rhetoric.

“The fact remains that our democracy is in danger if we allow one-way traffic in balloting,” he said.

“This is not a warning to the opposition or ruling party, but to all Nigerians who believe in the development of our nation.”

Okinbaloye added that he had received a call from Wike, who clarified that his intentions were not as conveyed.

“While that is noted, it is important that violent rhetoric or threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society. Let me be clear: I am not afraid and I will never be intimidated,” he said.

The journalist stressed the importance of dissent in a democracy, saying: “We may disagree and as humans we may err, but dissent must never descend into hostility or harm. I will continue to do what I love, asking the necessary questions and holding power to account.”