The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has called on Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to retract a threatening remark he made against Channels TV anchor Seun Okinbaloye.

In a statement signed by Ahmed Ramalan, IBAN Chairman, and Fidelis Duker, Acting General Secretary, the association warned that it would advise independent broadcast stations to suspend coverage of the minister’s press briefings and media engagements if a public apology is not issued.

The demand follows comments by Wike, in which he said he would have “broken his TV screen and shot” Okinbaloye. The threat came after the journalist criticized the idea of a one-party system, arguing that it could undermine democracy in Nigeria.

Wike’s statement has drawn widespread condemnation. Amnesty International described his remarks as “reckless and violent language.”

IBAN urged the minister to reaffirm his commitment to press freedom in accordance with Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee the promotion of democratic principles and freedom of expression.

The statement emphasized: “Should the minister fail to meet these requests within a reasonable period, IBAN will have no choice but to advise all independent broadcast stations to suspend coverage of all press briefings, media chats, and official news conferences hosted by the FCT minister.”