Video: Wike reacts to clash with military over disputed land in Abuja
Nyesom Wike
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, publicly criticises the use of armed soldiers to intimidate government officials at a disputed land site allegedly owned by retired Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retd).
Video: Wike reacts to clash with military over disputed land in Abuja
Speaking to journalists ahead of the FCT Executive Council meeting on Thursday, Wike described the situation as “unfortunate” and emphasises that “the laws governing the Federal Capital Territory must be respected by all citizens, regardless of status or past position.”
The controversy escalated after a confrontation between Wike and Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, a serving naval officer stationed at the land in Gaduwa District, Abuja.
The land is reportedly being developed “unlawfully” by the retired Vice Admiral.
Wike expressed frustration over the deployment of military personnel to guard the site, saying, “How can I sit as a minister when government officials are being attacked and beaten up, officials at the level of directors? And I’ll just sit in my office doing what?”
Wike further explained his refusal to formally escalate the matter to the Nigerian military since the individual responsible for the land development is now a private citizen.
He referenced calls from prominent military figures, including former Head of State General Olusegun Obasanjo and former Chief of Army Staff General Theophilus Danjuma, who previously advised him to resolve land disputes “in a lawful and orderly manner.”
Condemning the obstruction of lawful enforcement activities by military personnel, Wike made it clear that no one should be above the law in the Federal Capital Territory.
