A heated confrontation between Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a military officer during an enforcement exercise in Abuja on Tuesday has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria.

The clash occurred when Wike, alongside officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), attempted to access a disputed plot of land allegedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd). In a widely circulated video, Wike can be seen exchanging heated words with uniformed soldiers, insisting that the developers had no valid ownership or building approval.

Wike later described the incident as “lawless and unacceptable”, emphasizing that no one, regardless of position, would be allowed to obstruct the enforcement of Abuja’s development laws. He revealed that he had contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who promised to address the situation.

Mixed Reactions Across the Country

Supporters of Wike applauded his firmness in tackling illegal land developments. APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe called for the soldier involved to be disciplined for insubordination, describing the act as unacceptable.

On the other hand, critics argued that Wike overstepped his authority. Former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka said ministers should act through institutions, not personal impulses, warning that verbal attacks on uniformed officers undermine the sovereignty and authority of the state. Former Kaduna senator Shehu Sani also cautioned against “performative confrontations” with soldiers.

A coalition of military veterans condemned Wike’s language, calling for a public apology. They argued that his comments demeaned both the military and the office of the minister.

Civil society organizations also weighed in. The Civil Rights Realisation and Advancement Network (CRRAN) criticized the alleged deployment of soldiers by the former Naval Chief to guard personal property, calling it unconstitutional and a sign of a failed system. The group urged the military to focus on combating insurgency and banditry, rather than protecting private interests.

Former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai described Wike’s action as a threat to national security, noting that verbally disparaging a uniformed officer undermines the chain of command and the authority of the Commander-in-Chief. He called for the minister to apologize to President Bola Tinubu and the officer involved.