Nationwide Uproar as Wike, Soldier Engage in Heated Confrontation Over Abuja Land Dispute
Story: written by Myra November 12,2025
A heated altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a military officer during an enforcement operation in Abuja on Tuesday has triggered widespread reactions across Nigeria.
In a viral video, Wike was seen exchanging harsh words with soldiers who reportedly barred him and officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) from accessing a contested plot of land allegedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd).
Wike, visibly infuriated, accused the soldiers of protecting illegal developers without proper ownership or building permits. “Shut up! You are a fool,” Wike was heard saying. “As at the time I graduated, you were still in primary school. Who are you to intimidate us?”
The video sparked public debate over the conduct of both parties. Supporters praised Wike’s firm stance against illegality, while critics faulted his tone and lack of restraint.
Wike’s Response
In a statement released by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike condemned the alleged illegal occupation of the disputed land, describing the soldiers’ actions as “lawless and unacceptable.”
He said no one, no matter their past position, would be allowed to violate Abuja’s development regulations.
“When I was informed that soldiers were obstructing our officials, I ordered a halt to activities there. Yet, they returned to intimidate FCTA staff. That’s why I visited personally,” he said.
Wike added that he had contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Naval Staff to resolve the issue amicably.
Mixed Reactions
APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe demanded disciplinary action against the soldier, calling his behaviour “insubordination,” while former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka criticised Wike for personally engaging in the confrontation.
Chidoka said the minister “overstepped his bounds” and should have communicated formally with the Defence Ministry instead of confronting the officers.
Similarly, former Kaduna lawmaker Shehu Sani warned Wike to avoid “performative stunts” with soldiers, urging him to handle such matters through proper channels.
Veterans and CSOs Condemn Outburst
The Coalition of Military Veterans denounced Wike’s comments as disrespectful, demanding a public apology for calling a soldier “a fool.” They warned of protests if any punitive action was taken against the officer.
Meanwhile, the Civil Rights Realisation and Advancement Network (CRRAN) condemned the alleged deployment of soldiers by the retired Naval Chief, describing it as unconstitutional and “a sign of systemic failure.”
The group urged the Armed Forces to focus on national security challenges instead of private disputes.
Buratai Speaks
Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, also weighed in, describing Wike’s behaviour as “a threat to national security” and “an assault on the integrity of the military.”
He called on the minister to apologise to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces, warning that such acts erode military discipline and national cohesion.
