Over 600 Civil Society Groups have demanded for Wike’s sack over verbal assault on Naval Officer.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike is facing growing backlash as more than 600 civil society organizations (CSOs) have united to demand his immediate removal from office following his recent public altercation with a naval officer in Abuja.
The groups, under the umbrella of the Good Governance Network (GGN), condemned Wike’s outburst where he was seen shouting at and insulting a uniformed officer as “reckless, unacceptable, and dangerous to national unity.”
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In a strongly worded communiqué signed by Comrade Usman Danladi and co-endorsed by organizations including the Centre for Transparency and Accountability in Governance, Citizens Watch Forum, Anti-Corruption Vanguard Network, and the Youth for Ethical Leadership Initiative, the CSOs accused Wike of gross misconduct, abuse of power, and disregard for the military institution.
“What the nation witnessed was not a mere exchange of words,” the statement read.
“It was a deliberate, public humiliation of a commissioned officer of the Nigerian Navy—an officer who swore an oath to defend this country with his life.”
The coalition aligned with former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd.), who earlier called for decisive action, insisting that “nothing short of Wike’s dismissal” would restore confidence in government and the armed forces.
“Wike’s conduct is unbecoming of a public official” — CSOs
The groups accused Wike of a pattern of arrogance and intimidation, citing his frequent use of threats, harsh demolitions, and verbal abuse in his handling of Abuja affairs.
“This is not leadership. This is not governance,” the communiqué continued.
“This is the conduct of a man who believes his political office places him above the law, above decency, and above the armed forces that protect our democracy.”
They warned that allowing Wike’s conduct to go unpunished would set a dangerous precedent and erode the morale of military personnel.
CSOs’ Demands to Tinubu
The coalition issued a series of demands directed at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to take immediate action:
Immediate sack of Wike from office to preserve the integrity of the government and protect national unity.
Public apology from Wike within 48 hours to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigerian Navy, and the affected officer.
Independent investigation by a special panel to probe the minister’s conduct and determine possible violations of public service rules.
Disciplinary measures if found guilty, including suspension from office.
Mandatory training for public officials on civil-military relations to prevent future incidents.
The CSOs also demanded a new government policy prohibiting any public official from insulting or obstructing members of the armed forces while on duty.
“We will not be silent” — Coalition vows sustained pressure
The statement warned that failure to discipline Wike would be interpreted as state-sanctioned impunity, capable of demoralizing soldiers and damaging the credibility of the Tinubu administration.
“If this matter is swept under the carpet, it will embolden impunity, weaken morale in the barracks, and erode public trust in government,” the group said.
“This is not about politics; it is about principle, respect, and the kind of Nigeria we want — one where no one is above the law.”
The coalition praised General Buratai for “speaking truth to power” and reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the case until justice is served.
“The eyes of the nation are watching. The integrity of this government is at stake,” the CSOs warned.
“We will follow up, mobilize, and ensure accountability until justice is done.”
