“My Officials Were Attacked” – Wike Explains Confrontation With Naval Officer Over Disputed Land
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has addressed his recent confrontation with Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, a serving naval officer, over a disputed plot of land allegedly owned by retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo. Speaking to journalists before the FCT Executive Council meeting on Thursday, Wike condemned the retired officer for allegedly deploying military personnel to guard the property. Responding to criticism over his site visit, the minister said he could not remain passive while government officials were being attacked. “How can I sit as a minister when government officials are being attacked and beaten up, officials at the level of directors? And I’ll just sit in my office doing what?” he asked. The incident reportedly took place on Tuesday at No. 1946, Gaduwa District, Abuja. Wike accused the retired naval officer of carrying out illegal construction on the land and said he confronted Lieutenant Yerima after staff of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) were allegedly assaulted while trying to stop the development. Wike also criticized the use of military personnel to obstruct lawful enforcement activities. “Many influential Nigerians have had similar land issues. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo simply calls me, and I help resolve it. General T.Y. Danjuma does the same. They never send soldiers to attack anyone; they just call,” he said. He further condemned the naval officer for reportedly insulting police officers on the scene, calling them “bloody police.” Wike said, “A security officer should never speak like that. The same officials you are assaulting are the ones who made you what you are.” The minister, however, emphasized his respect for the Nigerian military, insisting that his issue was with a private individual, not the armed forces. “I respect the military and will continue to do so. Anyone suggesting I have a problem with them is wrong. This is a private matter, not a conflict with the government or the military,” he stated.
