Tag: Military Veterans

A coalition of Nigerian military veterans has demanded a public apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over his verbal altercation with a naval officer during an enforcement visit to a disputed plot of land in Abuja. The group’s reaction followed a viral video showing Wike in a heated argument with naval personnel who had prevented him and his team from accessing the property. In the footage, Wike accused the officers of backing an illegal development, while one of them maintained that they were acting on official orders and that the land was linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff. The exchange escalated as Wike reportedly used offensive language toward one of the officers, prompting widespread criticism. In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, the Coalition of Military Veterans condemned Wike’s behaviour, calling it a show of disrespect towards a serving officer. “How can a public office holder call an officer ‘a fool’ on camera? He should have engaged the Chief of Naval Staff privately rather than attempting to disgrace a retired senior officer,” Durowaiye-Herberts said. He emphasized that uniformed personnel represent the authority of the Nigerian state and that insulting them undermines the nation’s institutions. The coalition also warned against any plans to sanction the officer, threatening to stage a protest if disciplinary action is taken. “If for any reason the officer is punished, military veterans will occupy the office and residence of the FCT Minister,” the spokesperson cautioned. Durowaiye-Herberts added that Wike’s conduct was unworthy of his position and urged him to show leadership by apologizing. “Wike’s action demeans the dignity of the office of a minister. He should apologise for using abusive language. It is not acceptable behaviour,” he stated.