The Glide Media Foundation has condemned comments attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, which were perceived as a threat to journalist Seun. The organization has called on the minister to issue a public apology over the remarks.
In a statement, the foundation expressed concern about what it described as an attempt to intimidate a member of the press. It emphasized the importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring that journalists can carry out their duties without fear of harassment or threats.
The group warned that statements perceived as hostile toward journalists could undermine democratic principles and erode public trust in government institutions. It urged public officials to exercise restraint and uphold the rights of media practitioners.
The controversy has drawn reactions from political figures, including a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who alleged that opposition parties were politicizing the minister’s comments. The party figure argued that the remarks had been taken out of context and amplified for political gain.
The APC chieftain maintained that Wike’s statement did not constitute a direct threat and criticized opposition actors for using the situation to score political points. He called for a more balanced interpretation of the minister’s comments.
The incident has sparked wider debate about the relationship between public officials and the media, particularly in a politically charged environment. Analysts note that such controversies often highlight tensions between government authorities and journalists.
Meanwhile, advocacy groups have continued to stress the need for accountability and adherence to democratic norms. They insist that public office holders must be mindful of their words, especially when addressing issues involving the press.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official response from Minister Wike addressing the demand for an apology. The situation remains under public scrutiny, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments.
