Wike Says He Won’t Be Intimidated By Military Officer In Abuja Land Dispute
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has vowed not to succumb to intimidation or blackmail following a confrontation with an unidentified military officer over an alleged land-grabbing incident in Abuja. Speaking to journalists after the clash on Tuesday, Wike described the situation as “unfortunate,” saying the altercation stemmed from efforts by the FCT Administration to stop illegal developments in the area. According to him, his team had gone to enforce directives issued by his office when soldiers reportedly intervened to stop the operation. “When they came here, I was informed that the military came to chase them away, and I thought they were acting illegally,” Wike said. “So today, while I was in the office, they came to implement the directive that was given to them by myself. I was told that the military had taken over the place, and I had to come by myself. It is really unfortunate.” The minister expressed concern that the officer involved appeared to be using his military status to intimidate government officials, stressing that such behavior was unacceptable. “I do not understand how somebody who attained that position sees that he has a problem and cannot approach my office to say, ‘look, this is what is going on.’ But simply because he is a military man, he thinks he can use that to intimidate Nigerians. I am not one who will succumb to blackmail or intimidation,” Wike stated. He further challenged the officer to present valid documentation proving ownership of the disputed property. “Where are the documents? I said, bring the documents. You don’t have approval for building, you don’t have it. How can we continue to allow lawlessness to prevail in this country?” he asked. Wike confirmed that he had reached out to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, both of whom assured him that the matter would be addressed appropriately. “We are not here to cause chaos, but I must say I will not allow this illegal development to continue just because he is a former Chief of Naval Staff,” he said. A video circulating online showed Wike confronting the officer and accusing him of using the military to unlawfully seize land. “Because you are an officer? Nobody does that. The man took land because he was the Chief of Naval Staff?” the minister was heard saying. Since assuming office in August 2023, Wike has intensified efforts to tackle illegal land acquisitions and unauthorized developments across Abuja, insisting that the capital’s master plan must be strictly restored and maintained.