Defence Headquarters Breaks Silence After Tense Encounter
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has broken its silence following a dramatic confrontation between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and military personnel. In a cryptic social media post that has sparked widespread discussion across Nigeria, the military establishment declared its position amid growing tensions.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, when Minister Wike was reportedly blocked from accessing a piece of land in the Gaduwa area of Abuja by soldiers. Viral videos captured the heated exchange that followed, showing the minister engaging in a tense argument with the military personnel who prevented his access.
Military's Cryptic Response Goes Viral
Following the confrontation, the Defence Headquarters took to its official X handle, @DHQNigeria, with a message that has been interpreted as a direct response to the incident. The post read: "It is an honour to serve in the Nigerian military. Unshaken, Unbent, Unbroken."
The timing of this statement, coming just hours after the widely publicized clash, has led many observers to view it as the military's institutional response to the confrontation with the high-profile minister. The choice of words - particularly "Unshaken, Unbent, Unbroken" - has been seen as a strong declaration of the military's stance.
Nigerians Divided in Heated Social Media Debate
The military's post and the preceding incident have triggered intense reactions from Nigerians across social media platforms. The public response has been sharply divided, reflecting the complex relationship between civilian authority and military power in the country's democracy.
Some social media users criticized the military's response. User @afilmhead commented: "A bully has no honor," while @Kwara_Yakoyo expressed concern that the statement appeared to "endorse illegal activity of the naval officer who obstructed civilian from carrying out their lawful duty."
However, other Nigerians supported the military's position. User @chingician defended the soldiers' actions, stating: "Yerima was very professional. He doesn't take orders from Wike. The military don't worship politicians like the other ones."
The debate has extended to constitutional matters, with user @ZubbyReX pointing out that "FCT Minister by Law has full jurisdiction over Land Use in FCT. Wike has superior Authority in this matter." This legal perspective highlights the tension between statutory authority and military protocol.
Broader Implications for Civil-Military Relations
The incident has raised important questions about the relationship between civilian authorities and the military in Nigeria's democracy. During the confrontation, Minister Wike was reported to have vowed not to be intimidated by armed personnel, insisting that no one is above civil authority.
Meanwhile, political commentator Joe Igbokwe has called for the sack of Lieutenant Yarima, the officer who confronted Minister Wike. This demand adds another layer to the ongoing controversy and suggests that the incident may have longer-term consequences for the personnel involved.
As the situation continues to develop, many Nigerians are watching closely to see how this clash between political authority and military protocol will be resolved. The Defence Headquarters' strong statement indicates that the military establishment is standing firm in its position, setting the stage for potential further developments in this unfolding story.
