Military Veterans Condemn Wike Over Clash With Naval Officer, Demand Public Apology

A coalition of Nigerian military veterans has strongly criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, following his recent confrontation with a naval officer during an enforcement operation in Abuja.

The incident, captured in a viral video, occurred at a disputed site in the Gaduwa area of the FCT, where Wike was overseeing an enforcement exercise. The footage showed the minister in a heated exchange with naval personnel reportedly guarding the property.

During the encounter, Wike accused the officers of providing protection for what he described as an illegal development. One of the naval officers, however, maintained that they were acting on superior orders and that the land belonged to a former Chief of Naval Staff. The argument escalated, with the minister allegedly using offensive language against the officer.

Public reaction to the video has been divided. While some defended Wike’s authority as a minister, others condemned his verbal outburst, saying it disrespected the military institution.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, the **Coalition of Military Veterans** expressed displeasure over Wike’s conduct, describing it as unbecoming of a public official.

“How can a public office holder call an officer ‘a fool’ on camera?” Durowaiye-Herberts said. “If the minister had concerns, he should have addressed them through the Chief of Naval Staff instead of attempting to embarrass a serving officer.”

The group emphasised that uniformed officers represent the authority of the Nigerian state and that disrespecting them undermines the integrity of national institutions.

The veterans also warned against any disciplinary action targeting the naval officer, threatening mass action if such occurred.

“If the officer is sanctioned for this incident, military veterans across the country will occupy the FCT Minister’s office and residence,” the statement read.

The coalition called on Wike to tender a public apology, insisting that his words and actions were inappropriate.

“Wike’s behaviour was unworthy of his office. He must apologise to the officer and to the Nigerian military community,” Durowaiye-Herberts concluded.