Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on the Ministry of Defence to update Nigerians on the ongoing investigation into a disputed parcel of land allegedly linked to the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd.).

Tension peaked in Abuja earlier this month after naval officers blocked Wike and senior officials of the FCT Administration from accessing the property, triggering public concern across the nation’s capital.

Recall that Wike, reacting during internal briefings at the Federal Capital Territory Administration, had insisted that all building activities on the land were illegal, stating that the military failed to secure approval or submit valid documentation to the FCTA before commencing construction.

During the dispute, Wike suggested that the former naval chief may have fallen victim to fraudulent land dealers.

“From all indications, it appears the former Chief of Naval Staff was scammed,” Wike reportedly told FCTA officials, adding that authorities must verify the validity of any documents linked to the officer before construction continues.

He maintained that the Nigerian military “neither obtained approval nor submitted valid documentation” to the FCTA before breaking ground.

Matawalle Insists On Inquiry, Accuses Wike Of Rushing

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, criticised Wike’s handling of the matter, accusing him of dismissing earlier counsel from the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff to wait for a formal inquiry.

Matawalle had argued that service chiefs warned Wike to avoid on-site confrontation until investigative findings were concluded.

Reacting in an interview with Daily Independent, Olayinka stated that only the Defence Ministry can brief Nigerians on the investigation since it publicly announced the inquiry.

Olayinka said, “You said the Ministry of Defence will investigate the circumstances surrounding the land. The question should be directed at them.

“If they said they are investigating, how far have they gone? If not, why is the investigation taking so long?”

Olayinka further stated that Nigerians deserve to know if Vice Admiral Gambo has submitted proof of legitimate ownership.

“Has the former Chief of Naval Staff provided evidence that he genuinely owns the land? Has he provided proof that he actually submitted the right documents to the authorities?” he asked.

Asked whether Wike’s directive halting further development was being obeyed, Olayinka admitted he had not visited the site since the face-off.

“I will find out. It is not a question I can answer as I’m talking to you now, because I have not gone there since that incident,” he said.

“I will confirm and get back to you,” he added, promising an update once verification is complete.