Wike Blasts News Anchor Seun Okinbaloye’s Over ‘One-Party State’ Claim

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has sparked controversy after revealing he once felt the urge to “shoot” a television anchor over comments made during a live programme.

Wike made the remark while reacting to statements by Seun Okinbaloye on Politics Today regarding the possibility of Nigeria drifting toward a one-party state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

During Thursday’s edition of the programme, Okinbaloye had expressed concern that the crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could weaken opposition forces, warning that the country’s democracy may be at risk if competitive elections are undermined.

“I’m particularly very pained because what makes the race interesting is when it’s competitive… If this hope is dashed, we are doomed democratically speaking,” Okinbaloye said during the broadcast.

However, speaking during a media chat in Abuja on Friday, Wike criticised the journalist’s comments, accusing him of abandoning neutrality and taking sides in the political discourse.

“I was surprised… If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” Wike said, expressing displeasure over the anchor’s remarks.

The minister argued that as an interviewer, Okinbaloye should limit himself to asking questions rather than expressing personal opinions on national television.

“There is nothing wrong with asking your interviewee questions. But you are now the one making statements, which means you have already taken a position,” he added.

The comment has since generated widespread reactions, with many Nigerians debating the role of journalists in political discussions and the tone of public discourse among political leaders.