By Charles Pemu 
ABUJA—Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was recently involved in a heated public confrontation with naval personnel at a disputed land site in the Gaduwa area of Abuja. The incident, captured on video, has ignited controversy, with Wike implicitly accusing the military of using its authority to facilitate illegal land acquisition.
Wike, who was conducting an enforcement operation, questioned the presence of the military personnel allegedly guarding the land. In the footage, he accused the officers of supporting an illegal development.
One of the naval personnel insisted that they were acting on orders and that the land belonged to a former Chief of Naval Staff (CNS). The exchange reportedly escalated, with Wike using harsh language against the officer.
Veterans Condemn Wike, Demand Apology
The altercation has drawn sharp criticism from a coalition of Nigerian military veterans, who condemned Wike’s conduct and demanded a public apology.
The veterans argued that a public office holder should not use abusive language against a security personnel carrying out official duties, and that disrespecting a uniformed officer undermines public institutions.
The Coalition’s spokesperson, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, stated: “How can a public office holder call an officer ‘a fool’ on camera? If he was responsible, he should have engaged the Chief of Naval Staff privately rather than attempting to disgrace a retired senior officer.”
The veterans also warned that any attempt to discipline the naval officer would be resisted, asserting that military officers swear loyalty to the country, not to individual public officials.
Wike’s History of Accusation
This is not the first time Wike has accused security agents of aiding illegal activities. In a past event, while he was Governor of Rivers State, Wike accused police and NSCDC officials of aiding illegal oil refineries.
The ongoing clash in Abuja underscores a persistent tension over land management and the alleged abuse of military influence in civilian matters within the FCT.