Channels Television ‘Politics Today’ anchor, Seun Okinbaloye has said that he will not be intimidated following the controversy surrounding comments made by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Okinbaloye made this known during a broadcast on Sunday, where he acknowledged the widespread solidarity from civil society groups, viewers, and both local and international organisations.

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

He warned that democracy could be undermined if dissenting voices are silenced.

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“Our democracy is in danger if we allow a one-way narrative in public discourse,” he said.

He clarified that his remarks were not targeted at any political group but at all Nigerians.

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

Okinbaloye also revealed that he received reassurances regarding his safety, including from the Department of State Services (DSS).

He further disclosed that he had received a call from the FCT Minister, who clarified that his earlier comments were not intended as perceived.

Despite the clarification, Okinbaloye cautioned against the use of inflammatory language, noting that “violent rhetoric or suggestive threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society,” particularly during an election period when public confidence and safety are crucial.

He warned that such statements could be misinterpreted and exploited, adding, “We must not create an environment where such remarks can be used by individuals with harmful intentions.”

“Let me be clear, I’m not afraid, and I will never be intimidated.

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

The controversy emanated from remarks made by Wike during a media parley in Abuja, where he reacted to Okinbaloye’s comments on a Channels Television programme discussing the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its implications for opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections.

Okinbaloye had earlier raised concerns about the possibility of a one-party state, comments the minister criticised as inappropriate for a journalist.

Although Wike later clarified that he did not intend any physical harm, his aide, Lere Olayinka, explained that the statement was made in a hyperbolic context without harmful intent, adding that the minister was reacting to what he perceived as political commentary rather than neutral moderation.

However, Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the remarks, describing them as “reckless and violent,” and warning that such language could incite attacks on journalists and undermine press freedom.

The organisation added that such statements risk normalising violence and encouraging the targeting of journalists, stressing that comments of this nature from public officials are unacceptable in a democratic society.