Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has found himself at the center of a growing controversy following a heated confrontation with naval officers in Abuja that has drawn condemnation from retired military generals.
The Abuja Land Dispute Escalation
The incident occurred on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, when Wike attempted to visit a piece of land reportedly claimed by former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo. According to eyewitness accounts, the minister was stopped from accessing the property by naval officers loyal to the retired naval chief.
During the tense standoff, Wike reportedly challenged Lieutenant Yerima, who was leading the naval contingent, to shoot him. The FCT minister later addressed journalists, describing the military's actions as "acts of lawlessness" and questioning the use of armed personnel to protect what he termed illegal development and land grabbing.
Military Veterans React Strongly
The confrontation has prompted strong reactions from retired military leaders, including former Chief of Army Staff Major General Tukur Buratai (retd.). In a Facebook post hours after the incident, Buratai stated that Wike's "public disparagement of a uniformed officer" could not be dismissed as mere political theater.
Buratai emphasized that the minister's actions represented a potential threat to military integrity and national security. He demanded that Wike issue a public apology to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian armed forces, and Lieutenant Yerima.
Former Defence Chief Joins Criticism
Former Chief of Defence Staff General Lucky Irabor (retd.) also condemned Wike's conduct during the altercation. Irabor argued that by using "unprintable statements" against a uniformed officer, the minister had indirectly insulted President Tinubu.
The retired general stressed the importance of respecting military uniforms as symbols of state authority, regardless of the circumstances. He urged Nigerians to maintain proper respect for personnel in uniform at all times.
Coalition of Military Veterans Speaks Out
A broader coalition of Nigerian military veterans has added its voice to the growing criticism. Spokesperson Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts released a statement condemning Wike for verbally insulting the naval officer during the enforcement visit to the disputed land in Abuja.
The veterans' group expressed concern over the minister's approach to resolving the land dispute, suggesting that proper channels for addressing such matters should have been followed rather than engaging in public confrontation with military personnel.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru has broken his silence on the matter, though details of his response remain limited. The incident continues to generate significant public discussion about the relationship between civilian authorities and military institutions in Nigeria.
