Wike clarifies ‘shoot’ comment, says it was figure of speech
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to the backlash trailing his controversial remark directed at Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television. Speaking during an interview on
- By Samuel Oamen
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to the backlash trailing his controversial remark directed at Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television.
Speaking during an interview on News Central on Monday, Wike described the statement as a figure of speech borne out of frustration, insisting it was not meant to be taken literally.
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“It’s really unfortunate that in Nigeria, people blow everything out of context, particularly when politics is involved,” he said.
According to the minister, his relationship with Okinbaloye remains cordial, noting that he had already reached out to the journalist to clarify the situation.
“Anyone who knows my relationship with Seun will not react that way. It was just a figure of speech to express how angry I was.
"I’ve spoken to him, and we have no problem. He understands,” Wike added.
The controversy followed a recent interview on Channels Television, where Okinbaloye cautioned that a one-party system could undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
In response, Wike said he would have “broken his TV screen and shot” the anchor, a remark that sparked widespread criticism.
The comment drew reactions from several quarters, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress, both of whom condemned the statement.
