A heated confrontation between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and a military officer during a land enforcement operation in Abuja has drawn nationwide reactions.
A video circulating online shows Wike arguing with soldiers stationed at a disputed property reportedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd). The minister insisted the site lacked valid documents and challenged the soldiers presence. During the exchange, he was heard saying, Shut up Keep quiet You are a fool. As at the time I graduated, you were still in primary school… You send soldiers to intimidate who We are all from this country… If not for the CDS who spoke to me now, you would have to kill everybody here.
Wike later issued a statement condemning what he called illegal occupation of federal land by military personnel allegedly acting on behalf of a former naval chief. He maintained that the developers did not present ownership or building approval and noted that he had contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff to address the situation. According to him, nobody will be allowed to obstruct lawful enforcement in the capital.
The incident sparked mixed reactions. Some supporters praised Wike for asserting the rule of law, while critics accused him of breaching protocol and failing to show restraint.
APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe condemned the soldier’s conduct, calling for disciplinary action and stating the uniform should be removed over perceived insubordination.
In contrast, former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka criticised Wike for personally engaging in enforcement and verbally confronting a uniformed officer. He said, To abuse such an officer is to diminish the authority of the Republic itself, describing the situation as a lapse in process and institutional respect.
Former senator Shehu Sani advised Wike not to engage in public confrontations with security officers, remarking that the minister should not be encouraged to do this kind of stunt with soldiers.
A coalition of military veterans demanded an apology from Wike, accusing him of insulting an officer and threatening protests if sanctions are imposed on the soldier. The group asked, How can a minister call an officer a fool on camera, arguing that military personnel owe loyalty to the nation and not to individuals.
Civil society organisation CRRAN faulted the reported deployment of soldiers to protect private property, describing it as unconstitutional and a sign of institutional decay. It argued that the military cannot be used for private purposes except under presidential authority.
Former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai also condemned the minister’s comments, calling the incident a threat to national security and urging Wike to apologise to the President and the officer. He stated that such conduct undermines military morale and federal authority.
The confrontation has intensified debate over civil-military relations, public office conduct, and the enforcement of Abuja land regulations.
