Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has brought back into focus his longstanding tensions with Nigeria's military establishment following recent allegations against retired Major General Jamil Sarham.
The controversy emerged during Wike's appearance on Channels Television in September, where he recalled a dramatic incident from the 2019 Rivers State gubernatorial election. According to the minister, Sarham, who then served as General Officer Commanding of the 6th Division in Port Harcourt, explicitly ordered soldiers to shoot him during the heated electoral period.
The Background of Wike's Military Confrontations
Wike's latest revelation comes amid his recent highly publicized confrontation with Lieutenant Yerima over a land dispute in Abuja. This pattern of clashes with military officers has characterized the minister's political career, highlighting the delicate relationship between civilian authorities and armed forces personnel.
The FCT minister asserted that Sarham's actions during the 2019 election were politically motivated and connected to his political rival, Rotimi Amaechi. This allegation adds another layer to the complex political dynamics that have defined Rivers State politics for years.
Major General Sarham's Military Career Profile
Before his retirement, Major General Jamil Sarham held several significant positions within the Nigerian Army hierarchy. He served as the 36th General Officer Commanding of the 6th Division, headquartered in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, following his appointment in August 2018.
Prior to this command position, Sarham distinguished himself as Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji, Kaduna State. His career progression continued when he was redeployed in November 2019 to become the 29th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), succeeding Major General Adeniyi Oyebade.
Post-Retirement Activities and Counter-Allegations
Since leaving military service, Sarham has transitioned into private security sector. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of New Guard Security and Consultancy Services (NGSCS) Limited, where he continues to contribute to national security through private consultancy work.
The retired general has faced previous allegations from Wike, including claims made in May 2019 that he engaged in illegal oil bunkering activities while serving as GOC of the 6th Division. Wike had accused Sarham of deploying soldiers to steal and sell petroleum products and alleged that he shared confidential security information with criminal elements.
Sarham has consistently denied these allegations, instead claiming that Wike's hostility stems from his refusal to accept bribes intended to compromise the integrity of the Rivers State election process.
The renewed attention on these events underscores the ongoing tensions between political authorities and military leadership in Nigeria, particularly during highly contested election periods where security forces play crucial roles in maintaining order.
