Wike has denied any rift with the military over Abuja land dispute.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports of a rift between his office and the Nigerian military over a disputed plot of land in Abuja, insisting that his administration’s actions are guided strictly by the rule of law.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday in Abuja, Wike clarified that recent media reports had exaggerated the incident involving him and a naval officer, Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, which occurred on Tuesday, November 11, during an enforcement operation on a property reportedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd.)
ALSO: Court Orders Anamekwe Nwabuoku to Enter Defence in N868.46 Million Fraud Case
In viral footage that circulated on social media, Wike was seen in a heated verbal exchange with the naval officer after security personnel denied his team access to the property, citing instructions from superior officers.
However, the FCT Minister said the situation was being misrepresented by individuals attempting to create tension between his administration and the armed forces.
“Gentlemen, I have respect for the military. I will continue to respect them. So anybody trying to bring collision there, to say, ‘Oh, he is having a problem with the military,’ it is not correct. I don’t have a problem with the military, and I will not have a problem,” Wike said.
He explained that the issue at hand involved a private individual and not the military as an institution, stressing that the government will not tolerate obstruction of lawful duties by anyone.
“If we are having a problem with the military, I know where to run to — the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, or even the President. But this case concerns a private person. You cannot weaken government authority through intimidation,” he stated.
Wike disclosed that his intervention followed reports that some officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) were assaulted while carrying out enforcement duties on the property.
“People have problems. We’ve tried to resolve them, but don’t use intimidation or force against government officials. Once we allow that, others will follow suit. We must enforce the law,” he said.
Reiterating his commitment to upholding Abuja’s master plan, Wike warned that the government would continue demolitions and enforcement against illegal developments, land grabbing, and encroachments without compromise.
“Government cannot function in a lawless society. If we allow one person to violate the rules because of who he is, others will follow. That is how impunity begins,” he emphasized.
The Minister noted that his office has always resolved issues with security agencies institutionally, citing a previous instance involving the Nigerian Police over illegal structures under a power line, which was settled after the intervention of the Inspector-General of Police.
Wike also cautioned journalists against sensational reporting, urging the media to verify information before publication.
“Report accurately. Do investigative journalism. Don’t twist facts or take statements out of context,” he advised.
Reflecting on his leadership style, Wike said his approach is often misunderstood, emphasizing that firmness should not be mistaken for arrogance.
“You can’t make everybody happy. But once your conscience is clear that you are doing the right thing, you stand by it,” he added.
The Minister reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu’s vision for restoring discipline and order in the FCT, stressing that his administration will continue to act lawfully and decisively.
“As long as I remain FCT Minister, the law will take its course. Abuja must reflect the image of Nigeria — disciplined, planned, and lawful,” he concluded.
