A fresh perspective has emerged regarding the heated confrontation between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and Naval Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, with observers suggesting a specific comment about integrity triggered the minister's visible anger during the land dispute incident.
The Integrity Remark That Changed Everything
According to social media user @TayKingsleyc who analyzed the viral video, the naval officer's reference to his personal integrity appeared to be the turning point in the exchange. The officer reportedly told Wike: "Sir I am an officer, I have integrity" during their argument over access to a disputed parcel of land in Abuja.
The observer noted that this particular statement seemed to deeply affect the FCT minister, potentially explaining the escalation of tensions captured in the widely circulated video. The incident occurred when Minister Wike and his officials attempted to access land allegedly belonging to a former chief of naval staff, which was being guarded by military personnel.
Nigerians React to Minister's Conduct
The confrontation has sparked significant commentary across Nigeria, with many citizens weighing in on how the situation could have been handled differently. Journalist and social commentator Charles Ogbu described the face-off as unnecessary and criticized what he termed "Nigerian bigmanism."
Ogbu suggested alternative approaches the minister could have taken: "All the minister could have done, if he wasn't consumed by the usual Nigerian bigmanism, was to simply go through the established chain of command by calling any superior officer at the Defense Headquarters" who could then use proper channels to resolve the situation.
Despite the minister's assertive approach, the naval officer ultimately prevailed in preventing access to the contested property. Ogbu highlighted the contrast in their approaches: "True power does not make noise neither does it shout. It operates silently and still get wielded successfully" he noted, praising the officer's calm but firm demeanor.
Religious Leader Weighs In
Reverend Father Oluoma, a Catholic priest, also commented on the incident, acknowledging the naval officer's restraint while still supporting the minister's mission to recover illegally allocated lands.
The priest stated: "Kudos to the young soldier for at least keeping his cool to the extent he did. I think he deserves to be patted on the back for not doing anything stupid under the provocation by insult" while recognizing that the officer's military discipline might have contributed to his composed response.
The incident continues to generate discussion about power dynamics, protocol, and appropriate conduct between government officials and military personnel performing their duties.
