“Respect the Armed Forces, No Matter Your Status,” Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan Says on Wike–Naval Officer Face-Off

A former Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, has called on Nigerians across all walks of life to show greater respect for the country’s armed forces as reactions continue to trail the recent confrontation between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a naval officer in Abuja.

Lawan made the appeal on Thursday, November 13, after meeting President Bola Tinubu at the State House. Speaking with journalists, he emphasized that the military’s sacrifices in safeguarding national security demand consistent public recognition and support. He praised the armed forces for their efforts and urged citizens to appreciate the investments being made to strengthen security institutions.

He noted that Nigeria’s unity and territorial integrity depend heavily on the commitment of the military, stressing that respect for officers should not be influenced by social standing or political affiliation.

His comments followed the circulation of a viral video capturing Wike’s heated exchange with a naval officer at a disputed construction site in the Gaduwa area of Abuja. FCT officials had reportedly been prevented from accessing the location, which authorities say lacked proper approval. The land has been linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff, with soldiers allegedly stationed there to block enforcement activities.

Wike defended his intervention, saying senior officials of the FCT Administration were assaulted while carrying out lawful duties. He described the deployment of soldiers in the matter as an unacceptable misuse of authority and insisted that no individual could use military influence to obstruct government processes. He added that the FCT Administration had no record showing that the land was duly allocated.

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, responded by assuring that any officer performing lawful duties would be protected and confirmed that the Defence Headquarters had taken up the issue. He said the matter would be handled carefully to avoid tension between civilian authorities and military personnel.