Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned what it described as “reckless and violent language” by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over comments he made about a journalist.
In a statement posted on its social media platforms on Saturday, the rights group criticised Wike’s remark during a live television appearance, where he said: “If there’s anyway to broke (sic) the screen, I would have shot him…”
Amnesty International said the statement was not only dangerous but also capable of inciting violence against journalists.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the reckless and violent language of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Mr. Nyesom Wike in which he stated that he can respond to a statement by a journalist with shooting,” the organisation said.
It further stated that, “Apart from inciting violence, Wike’s remarks violated Nigeria’s broadcasting code that the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is supposed to be enforcing.”
The group warned that such comments from a top government official could normalise violence and put media practitioners at risk.
“What Wike said carries the danger of normalizing violence and encouraging the targeting of journalists for just doing their job. This level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable,” the statement added.
Amnesty International, therefore, called on the minister to retract his statement and tender a public apology.
“Mr. Wike must withdraw his violent statement immediately and apologize,” it said.
