The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called for a national apology to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following the incident in which a naval officer allegedly obstructed him from performing his official duties.
In a statement issued on Thursday, PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, described the episode as “a grave affront on constituted authority,” urging President Bola Tinubu to order a thorough investigation into the matter and ensure that those involved are held accountable.
Igali said that such actions undermine the professionalism of the military and threaten the foundation of democracy, which rests on respect for civil authority.
“This is not just an insult to Chief Wike but also to the office of the President, whose powers are vested in the FCT Minister,” Igali stated.
The former diplomat noted with concern the social media narratives glamorising the naval officer’s actions, alleging that the officer acted under the directive of a retired service chief.
He insisted that Wike, as a key member of the Federal Executive Council and a direct representative of the President on FCT matters, must be accorded full respect and protection.
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Igali further commended Wike’s performance as FCT Minister, describing him as one of the most hardworking members of the current administration who has shown “personal passion and zeal” in executing his duties.
He demanded that the Nigerian Navy tender an unconditional apology to Wike, not only to restore public confidence but also to uphold institutional integrity within the armed forces.
“The practice of deploying junior military personnel for illegal assignments such as guarding private or unoccupied lands is unacceptable and must stop,” Igali added.
PANDEF reaffirmed its commitment to defending democratic values and called on security agencies to act decisively to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.