A dramatic confrontation between the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and officers of the Nigerian Navy over a disputed land in Abuja has sparked a major controversy, with the military institution maintaining a conspicuous silence.
Minister Blocked from Accessing Land
The incident occurred on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in the Gaduwa District of the nation's capital. According to reports, Minister Wike was physically blocked and prevented from accessing a piece of land by a group of soldiers.
A video capturing the heated exchange quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread public attention to the altercation. During his visit to the site, the FCT Minister alleged that the military had illegally taken over the land.
Heated Exchange and Accusations
In the viral video, Wike is heard challenging the officers' authority to seize the property. He questioned the justification for the action, asking pointedly, "Because you are an officer? Nobody does that. The man took land because he was the Chief of Naval Staff?"
In a firm rebuttal, the Navy officer involved in the standoff insisted on the legality of their acquisition. The officer was heard asserting, "I am an officer with integrity. Everything was acquired legally," standing by the Navy's position despite the minister's strong objections.
Navy's Official Silence
Following the public incident, the Nigerian Navy has chosen to remain mute. When contacted for an official statement on Tuesday, the Navy spokesman, A. Adams-Aliyu, declined to comment on the situation.
Adams-Aliyu simply stated, "No reply for now," leaving the public without an official military perspective on the contentious matter. This refusal to engage has only fueled further speculation and discussion around the event.
The clash highlights ongoing tensions over land administration and ownership in the Federal Capital Territory, raising questions about the extent of military authority in civilian matters.
