Wike has come under fire as he faces fresh controversy over verbal abuse of military officer.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, is facing renewed criticism after a heated confrontation with a military officer over an alleged land-grabbing incident at Gaduwa District, Abuja on Tuesday.
A viral video of the clash at Plot 1946, Buffer Transit, Southern Parkway, shows the enraged minister confronting an unidentified officer over a property linked to retired Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo. Wike accused the officer of illegally claiming the land, questioning why the military would assert ownership simply because it was associated with a former naval chief.
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“Because you are an officer? Nobody does that. The man took land because he was the Chief of Naval Staff?” Wike demanded.
The officer, dressed in camouflage, insisted the acquisition was lawful. “I am an officer with integrity. Everything was acquired legally,” he replied.
Wike, visibly angered, told him to be quiet, prompting the officer to respond, “I will not shut up.” The minister shot back, “You are a very big fool. As of the time I graduated, you were still in primary school.”
The officer maintained he was acting on official orders, which led Wike to warn: “You will see if you will not leave here. Go and develop there and let me see.” Armed personnel had blocked access to the plot, preventing the FCTA’s bulldozers from carrying out demolition.
After making several calls, Wike eventually withdrew but warned that illegal construction on the land would not continue. He later told journalists that the officer was using his military background to intimidate government officials and stressed that the officers could not produce valid documents authorizing the development.
“What about those who don’t have the military? What about those who don’t have security?” Wike asked. “It has gotten to a level where, when government officials are carrying out their job, you go and bring security to intimidate them. And this government official—I will not accept that.”
He confirmed having contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Naval Staff, who assured him the matter would be resolved peacefully.
Public Reactions
The incident has sparked debate across social media.
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Omoyele Sowore, activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, criticised both the minister and the military, saying the scenario reflects a culture where officials protect personal interests over national duties.
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Shehu Sani, former Senator, praised Wike’s initiative but urged restraint.
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Some social media users, including Isaac Fayose and Oloye T.D., commended the officer’s composure and described the encounter as a lesson in discipline and standing up to perceived abuse of power.
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Others, like Saddam, defended Wike, arguing he was enforcing the law and ensuring proper governance, emphasizing respect for authority and adherence to protocol.
Land disputes and unauthorised property development have long been contentious in the FCT. Since taking office in August 2023, Wike has intensified demolitions and enforcement actions to restore the Abuja Master Plan and curb illegal encroachments, making this confrontation part of his broader campaign against land lawlessness.
