A prominent group comprising Nigerian military veterans has called upon the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to issue a formal apology. This demand follows a recent confrontation captured on video, during which the Minister allegedly used abusive language towards a young naval officer at a disputed land in Abuja.
The incident, documented in a viral video, showed a heated exchange between Minister Wike and several naval personnel at an FCT site. Wike had visited the location as part of an enforcement operation and challenged the presence of military personnel allegedly guarding the land.
The Minister’s Accusations and the Officer’s Defense
The footage reveals Wike accused the officers of supporting an illegal development, while one of the naval personnel insisted they were acting on orders and that the land belonged to a former Chief of Naval Staff. The situation quickly escalated, resulting in Wike reportedly using harsh language against the officer.
Veterans’ Coalition Criticizes Minister’s Conduct
Speaking through their spokesperson, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, the Coalition of Military Veterans strongly criticised Wike for verbally insulting the officer during the encounter. The coalition emphasized that a public office holder should refrain from using abusive language against security personnel carrying out official duties.
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Durowaiye-Herberts highlighted the gravity of the Minister’s actions, stating: “How can a public office holder call an officer ‘a fool’ on camera? He should have engaged the Chief of Naval Staff privately rather than attempting to disgrace a retired senior officer.”
The spokesperson further argued that a uniformed officer represents the authority of the Nigerian state, and disrespecting such an officer undermines public institutions.
Warning Against Retaliation and Demand for Apology
The veterans also took a firm stance against any potential disciplinary measures toward the naval officer, faulting calls for disciplinary action and cautioning that any such move would be resisted. The warning was unequivocal: “If for any reason the officer is punished, military veterans will occupy the office and residence of the FCT Minister,” he warned.
Durowaiye-Herberts stressed that military officers swear loyalty to the country and not to individual public officials, and reiterated the need for the Minister to apologize. He concluded by asserting: “Wike’s action demeans the dignity of the office of a minister. He should apologise for using abusive language. It is not acceptable behaviour,” Durowaiye-Herberts added.