Peter Obi brands Nigeria ‘disgraced country’ amid Wike, naval officer clash

Abdullateef Fowewe

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi has criticised the recent confrontation between FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and a Naval officer as another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional disorder in Nigeria.

Obi in a statement on Wednesday called the incident “a typical example coming out of a ‘disgraced country,’” highlighting the broader implications for Nigeria’s governance.

Obi questioned the role of the military in civil matters and the propriety of the Minister’s behaviour noting “Should the military be used for purely civil operations? If proper protocols were in place, should a Minister’s intervention in such a matter be in such an indecorous manner?”

He also emphasised the urgent need for respect for institutions and the rule of law.

He said, “We must learn from this episode. It is time to rebuild a nation where institutions are stronger than individuals; where public office is exercised with humility and restraint; where the dignity of our uniformed officers and the rights of every citizen are upheld.”

Obi concluded with a call to replace “the culture of impunity with the discipline of law, order, and respect for due process” to restore Nigeria’s dignity and integrity.