A coalition of Nigerian military veterans has condemned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over his recent confrontation with a naval officer during an enforcement visit to a disputed parcel of land in the Gaduwa area of Abuja.
Naijaonpoint reports that a viral video circulating online captured Wike in a heated argument with some naval personnel allegedly stationed to guard the property.
The minister, who visited the site as part of an enforcement operation, accused the officers of supporting what he described as “an illegal development.”
In the footage, Wike was seen questioning the officers’ authority and the legality of their presence. One of the naval personnel, however, maintained that they were acting under orders and that the land in question belonged to a former Chief of Naval Staff.
The confrontation escalated after Wike allegedly used harsh words against the officer, sparking nationwide debate over the conduct of both parties. While some Nigerians faulted the naval officer for challenging a serving minister, others defended him, arguing that Wike’s language was unbecoming of a public official.
Reacting to the controversy, the Coalition of Military Veterans, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, criticised Wike for verbally attacking the officer in uniform.
Durowaiye-Herberts asked, “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 coalition maintained that a uniformed officer represents the authority and sovereignty of the Nigerian state, and that any attempt to humiliate such an officer amounts to undermining public institutions.
The veterans also condemned reports suggesting that the officer could face disciplinary action over the confrontation. Durowaiye-Herberts warned that any attempt to sanction the officer would be met with stiff resistance from retired service members.
“If for any reason the officer is punished, military veterans will occupy the office and residence of the FCT Minister,” he said.
The coalition further demanded a public apology from the minister, insisting that his remarks were unbecoming of a government official.
“Wike’s action demeans the dignity of the office of a minister. He should apologise for using abusive language. It is not acceptable behaviour,” Durowaiye-Herberts added.
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