“I’m Not Afraid, I’ll Never Be Intimidated” – Seun Okinbaloye Reacts To Wike’s Threat

Channels Television presenter Seun Okinbaloye said he is not afraid or intimidated by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

This comes after Wike said he would have “broken his TV and shot” the journalist over his remarks that a one-party system could weaken democracy in Nigeria.

The minister’s statement has since sparked heavy criticism from civil society groups, with Amnesty International describing it as reckless and violent language.

Speaking again during Sunday’s broadcast, Okinbaloye stood firmly by his position, stressing that violent language has no place in any democratic society.

He also expressed gratitude for the support he received from viewers, civil society groups, and organisations both within and outside Nigeria.

“I sincerely want to thank civil society organisations, our viewers, for your love and your comments and your solidarity… Your support is deeply appreciated and reinforces our collective commitment to truth and accountability,” he said.

Okinbaloye warned that democracy faces serious risks when opposing views are silenced, noting that the system is endangered when citizens are pushed toward only one political direction during elections.

He explained that his earlier remarks were not aimed at any specific political party, but were meant as a message to every Nigerian who cares about the country’s progress.

“The fact remains that our democracy is in danger if we allow one-way traffic in balloting,” he said.

“This is not a warning to the opposition or ruling party. But to all Nigerians who believe in the development of our nation.” 

The broadcaster also revealed that he had received assurances about his safety from the Department of State Services (DSS).

He added that Wike personally contacted him to explain that his words were not intended in the threatening way they were understood.

“I also received a call from the Honourable Minister who clarified that the intention was not as conveyed,” Okinbaloye added.

Even with that clarification, Okinbaloye maintained that inflammatory comments and implied threats should never be used as a response to criticism, especially during an election period when public confidence and safety are essential.

He warned that such remarks can easily be taken out of context and misused by people with dangerous motives, creating unnecessary risks.

The journalist said, “While that is noted, it is important that violent rhetoric or threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society.” 

“We must not create an environment where such statements can be exploited by those with harmful intentions.”

Restating his stance, Okinbaloye made it clear that he is not afraid and will not be pressured into silence.

He said journalism guided by ethics and professional standards is a responsibility owed to the public, not something that should bend to political influence.

“Let me clear: I am not afraid and I will never be intimidated. We may disagree and as humans we may err, but dissent must never descend into hostility or harm.

He added that journalism “grounded in ethics and global best practices remains a duty to the public, not a concession to power.”

“I will continue to do what I love, asking the necessary questions, holding power to account… If that commitment comes at a cost, so be it.”

KanyiDaily recalls that a coalition of press freedom groups and civil society organisations had criticised Nyesom Wike’s comment against Seun Okinbaloye.