In an update published by Channels TV, popular anchor Seun Okinbaloye has publicly stated that he will not be intimidated by recent critical remarks made by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. During a Sunday broadcast, Okinbaloye emphasized that the role of journalism is to hold power to account, regardless of the political standing of the individuals involved.
The standoff began after the Minister expressed dissatisfaction with certain interviews conducted on the “Politics Today” program. Okinbaloye thanked Nigerians and civil society groups for their support, asserting that attempts to silence the media represent a danger to the nation’s burgeoning democracy.
The Sun highlighted the anchor’s resilience, quoting him as saying, “Journalism must remain firm in holding power to account,” while Leadership noted that “the incident has sparked a nationwide debate on press freedom under the current administration.”
Echotitbits take: This public spat highlights the increasing friction between the “Renewed Hope” administration and the Fourth Estate. Okinbaloye’s refusal to back down sets a high bar for editorial independence in an era of high political pressure.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/i-wont-be-intimidated-channels-tvs-okinbaloye-speaks-on-wikes-comment/, and April 6, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
