Alleged Land Dispute: Navy Silent Following Clash Between Wike and Officers

The Nigerian Navy has yet to issue a statement following a tense altercation between some of its officers and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over an alleged land dispute in Abuja’s Gaduwa District.

When contacted on Tuesday, Navy spokesperson A. Adams-Aliyu declined to comment, stating only, “No reply for now.”

The confrontation reportedly took place during Wike’s visit to the site, where he accused the military of illegally occupying the land. In a video circulating online, the visibly angered minister questioned why the Navy would claim ownership of the property allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff.

“Because you’re an officer? Nobody does that. The man took land because he was the Chief of Naval Staff?” Wike said.

An officer in military uniform interrupted, insisting the acquisition followed due process. “I am an officer with integrity. Everything was acquired legally,” he replied. Wike, visibly upset by the response, ordered him to remain silent. When the officer refused, Wike shot back, “You are a very big fool. As at the time I graduated, you were still in primary school.”

The officer maintained that his presence at the site was based on official deployment, to which Wike responded, “You will see if you will not leave here. Go and develop there and let me see.”

In a statement released by the Assistant Director of Press in the Office of the Minister, Rabi Umar, Wike condemned the incident, describing it as an act of lawlessness.

“I instructed them (FCTA officials) to ensure that no construction takes place without proper approval or legal acquisition documents. When they came earlier, the military reportedly chased them away. Today, I came to confirm it myself,” he said.

Umar further noted that Wike questioned the involvement of military personnel in protecting what he described as illegal developments and vowed that the FCTA would not tolerate such actions.

“It’s unfortunate. You heard what the officer said — that he was sent by the former Chief of Naval Staff. I don’t understand why someone who once held such a position couldn’t simply contact my office to clarify the issue. Perhaps he feels his status as a military man gives him the right to intimidate others. I’m not one of those who will bow to such pressure,” Wike added.