The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has clarified his “gun shooting” comment made while condemning Channels Television journalist, Seun Okinbaloye, over his statement on the alleged one-party direction of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike’s statement has since generated public outrage from opposition parties, civil society groups, and media personalities, who described it as a threat to press freedom.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, the minister said he enjoys a good personal relationship with Okinbaloye and did not intend to harm the journalist.
“It’s unfortunate that in Nigeria, people blow everything out of context, particularly by politicising everything. Anybody who knows my relationship with Seun will not begin to rant,” he said.
“It was a figure of speech to explain how angry I was. How can he descend so low as a journalist? Instead of asking questions and soliciting answers, you can then inform the public.
“I have spoken to him; he has no problem. I’m sure he understands everything,” he further clarified.
