The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) have called on the Federal Government to investigate an alleged threat made against Seun Okinbaloye, urging swift action to safeguard press freedom in the country.
In a joint statement, the organisations condemned remarks attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, during a media chat in Abuja, where he reportedly expressed anger over comments made by the Channels Television presenter on his programme.
They urged the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to “promptly, thoroughly, transparently and effectively investigate the threat,” and to ensure the safety of Okinbaloye and other journalists facing intimidation for carrying out their professional duties.
The controversy followed Okinbaloye’s remarks on the political outlook ahead of the 2027 elections, during which he raised concerns about the dominance of a single political party and developments within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Wike, however, argued that journalists should refrain from expressing personal opinions.
Reacting, the NGE and SERAP warned that press freedom in Nigeria is in decline, citing what they described as increasing cases of intimidation, harassment and attacks on journalists.
“Public figures, including politicians, are subject to a higher degree of scrutiny and criticism. The threat against Mr Okinbaloye illustrates the escalating risks to journalists and media freedom in the country,” the statement said.
The groups emphasised that freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments, noting that journalists are entitled to seek, receive and disseminate information of public interest without fear of reprisal.
They further argued that attempts to intimidate media practitioners undermine democratic accountability and discourage public-interest reporting.
The statement, jointly signed by NGE President Eze Anaba, General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, and SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, also raised concerns over what it described as a pattern of impunity in addressing threats and attacks against journalists.
According to the groups, failure by authorities to investigate and prosecute such incidents has emboldened perpetrators and contributed to a hostile environment for media practitioners.
They cited data indicating that dozens of journalists were assaulted or arrested while covering demonstrations in 2024, and noted Nigeria’s decline in the global press freedom rankings by Reporters Without Borders.
The organisations also warned against the growing use of legal actions, including defamation suits, to intimidate journalists—commonly referred to as Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs).
They urged the Federal Government to direct security agencies to investigate all reported threats against journalists since May 29, 2023, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
In addition, they called on the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to work with relevant authorities to guarantee justice for affected journalists and reinforce protections for media freedom.
The groups stressed that a free and independent press remains essential to democratic governance, accountability, and the protection of human rights.
