Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike was involved in a heated confrontation with a military officer over a disputed parcel of land in Abuja, an incident that has sparked a debate on governance and institutional respect. The event, which took place in the Gaduwa District, was captured on video and spread quickly online .
Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani responded to the incident by commending the minister's work in the capital but cautioning against such engagements with the military. He stated that Wike should not be encouraged to perform this kind of stunt with soldiers . The remark highlights concerns about civil-military relations and the ways in which public officials enforce policy.
The conflict centers on a plot of land known as Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District . Minister Wike accused the soldier of illegally guarding the property, which he stated was connected to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo . Wike argued that public land should not be taken by individuals because of their official connections . He challenged those present to show proof of official approval for the building project .
The military officer, dressed in camouflage, disagreed with the minister's account. He insisted that the land was acquired through the correct process and that he was acting within the law . The exchange grew more intense when the officer spoke over the minister, who then told the officer to be quiet . The officer refused this order, stating he was acting on official instructions .
Following the event, Minister Wike described the situation as unfortunate. He said he would not give in to blackmail or intimidation . He explained that his administration was investigating possibly illegal developments in the area and that the military had intervened during the enforcement of a directive from the FCT administration . Wike said he has spoken with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who both assured him the matter would be resolved .
The incident has received mixed reactions from the public and other political figures. While some online commentators praised the military officer's composure, others questioned the use of military personnel for what appeared to be a private interest . This Abuja land dispute has started a broader discussion about the rule of law and the conduct of public officials.
Former Minister of Aviation Osita Chidoka also criticized the minister's approach. Chidoka said that abusing a law enforcement officer diminishes the authority of the state . He described the minister's direct involvement as a fundamental misstep in a constitutional democracy, where power should be exercised through institutions and not through personal confrontation . Chidoka urged the minister to apologize for using abusive language and stated that the security detail should have worked to calm the situation rather than escalate it .
Land disputes and illegal allocations have been a continuing problem in Abuja. Since taking office, Minister Wike has vowed to restore the Abuja Master Plan and has increased efforts to stop unauthorized land acquisition and development . This recent event shows the challenges faced in these efforts, especially when dealing with powerful interests.
The viral video of the clash ensures that this incident will continue to be discussed. It touches on key issues of power, process, and how Nigeria manages its land and governance systems. The call from figures like Shehu Sani for the minister to avoid stunts with soldiers indicates a concern for maintaining proper channels and respect for national institutions .