Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended his recent confrontation with a naval officer, Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, over a disputed plot of land allegedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retd).
Speaking to journalists ahead of the FCT Executive Council meeting on Thursday, Wike criticized what he described as an act of impunity by the retired naval chief for allegedly deploying serving officers to guard the property.
The minister said he intervened personally after officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) were reportedly assaulted while attempting to halt illegal construction on the site.
“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 remain in my office?” Wike asked.
The confrontation, which occurred on Tuesday at Plot 1946, Gaduwa District, Abuja, was captured on video and circulated online. The footage showed Wike exchanging words with Lieutenant Yerima, who was accused of obstructing FCDA enforcement officers.
Wike condemned the alleged use of military personnel to prevent lawful government operations, noting that other prominent Nigerians had handled similar issues with decorum.
“Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and General T.Y. Danjuma have both had land issues before,” Wike said. “They simply called me and sought assistance — they never sent soldiers to attack anyone. That is what responsible leadership looks like.”
He also faulted Yerima for allegedly referring to police officers at the scene as “bloody police,” describing such remarks as disrespectful and unprofessional.
“Nobody talks like that. You claim to be a commissioned officer, yet you insult and assault the same government officials who made you what you are,” he said.
Wike stressed that his actions were not directed against the military as an institution but against an individual’s misuse of authority. “I have great respect for the military and what it represents. This issue is not between me and the armed forces; it’s a private matter involving one retired officer,” he stated.