Abuja Land Dispute: Differing reactions trail Wike – naval officer encounter
Story by Okafor Vivian
A disagreement between the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer, Lt. Ahmed Yerima, over a disputed parcel of land in Abuja has drawn varied reactions from different groups.
The incident occurred on Tuesday at a site said to be linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (retd.). The minister visited the location and halted construction activities, alleging that the development lacked government approval. During the visit, he questioned the presence of military personnel on the land, while the naval officer stated he was acting under instructions.
Speaking on Thursday ahead of the FCT Executive Council meeting, Wike said he intervened because officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority had been obstructed from carrying out their duties.
READ ALSO: Tension as Wike clashes with soldiers over land dispute
Veterans Call for Action Against Wike
A coalition of retired military personnel, at a press briefing in Kaduna, criticised the minister’s handling of the encounter. The group called on President Bola Tinubu to remove or redeploy the minister, stating that his comments toward the naval officer were inappropriate.
A representative of the coalition, Col. Yusuf Ibrahim (retd.), said the officer acted under lawful orders and should not have been addressed in an unprofessional manner. He added that the minister owed an apology to the military and the officer involved.
Another member of the coalition, Dr. Awwal Abdullahi, said the group believed the incident reflected an unacceptable pattern of engagement with military personnel.
However, Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, said the veterans were free to express their views, noting that the minister had already explained his position on the matter.
READ ALSO:Police shooting in Abuja land dispute claims life of Chief Imam’s son, leaves community outraged
Civil Society Groups Seek Probe of Officer
A civil society organisation, the National Coalition for Democratic Integrity, expressed support for the minister and called for an investigation into the conduct of the naval officer. Its president, Kiki Kiki, stated that preventing a minister from carrying out official duties could undermine civilian oversight and order.
Similarly, the Northern Christian Youth Professionals described the incident as inconsistent with constitutional provisions. The group argued that serving military personnel should not be deployed to guard private property and urged both the minister and the Navy to address any inappropriate actions on their respective sides.
READ ALSO: Man cries out, demands justice after soldiers tortured him over land dispute (Photos)
Kachikwu Urges Objective Review
Former presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu said the incident reflected broader issues in public discourse. Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, he noted that reactions to the clash appeared influenced by public sentiment toward the minister rather than the facts of the situation. He called on the President to ensure an impartial review of the matter.
Military Indicates Officer May Not Face Sanctions
Despite public debate, senior military sources indicated that Lt. Yerima might not face disciplinary action. The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, said the matter was under review but noted that personnel on legitimate duty should not be penalised.
Some retired military officers, including former Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), criticised the minister’s approach, but serving officers who spoke anonymously maintained that Yerima acted according to established military procedures and authorised orders.
According to one senior officer, military personnel deployed under approved instructions are required to follow their chain of command and operate within constitutional boundaries. Another officer emphasised that decisions on deployment are based on established rules, not public perception.
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