Mr Macaroni Blasts FCT Minister Wike Over Threat to Shoot Journalist Seun Okinbaloye

Popular Nigerian comedian and social commentator Mr Macaroni has slammed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike for his outburst against Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye.

Wike, during a media chat in Abuja on Friday, said he wished he could “break the screen” and shoot Okinbaloye for comments made on Politics Today the previous day. The journalist had questioned the drift towards a one-party state in Nigeria amid ongoing political realignments.

Mr Macaroni described the minister’s statement as deeply troubling. “This is a so-called ‘serving’ Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria saying in a live broadcast that he wished he could have shot and killed a Nigerian journalist,” he posted. He added that the remark shows how public servants become tyrants when they believe there will be no consequences for their actions.

The video of Wike’s comment has since gone viral, sparking widespread condemnation from journalists, civil society groups and rights organisations. Media stakeholders have called it a direct threat to press freedom and demanded an apology from the minister. Amnesty International Nigeria also faulted the statement, warning that such rhetoric normalises violence against media workers.

Okinbaloye had anchored a discussion on the possibility of Nigeria sliding into a one-party system, a topic many Nigerians have been debating following recent defections and party crises. Wike accused the presenter of taking sides instead of remaining neutral.

Mr Macaroni’s reaction has resonated with many citizens who see the incident as another example of public officials abusing their positions. Observers say it raises fresh questions about accountability in government and the safety of journalists doing their jobs.

NaijaChoice News reports that the development has further intensified calls for stronger protection of media independence in the country. As reactions continue to pour in, many are watching to see if the minister will address the backlash.

The controversy comes at a time when Nigerians are already concerned about the state of democracy and the space for free expression under the current administration.