Many Nigerians may wonder why I congratulate Minister Nyesom Wike after his confrontation with a naval officer. My reason is simple: such encounters with armed officers often end tragically, and his escape from harm is itself fortunate. The calmness of the naval officer deserves recognition.
The clash between the FCT Minister and the officer over a disputed plot in Abuja reflects deeper governance problems: abuse of authority, disregard for institutions, and the creeping replacement of rule of law with displays of power. Military veterans, including former Army Chief Buratai, have rightly condemned the incident.
My criticism of Wike is not only about the altercation but the attitude it revealed, namely arrogance, intimidation, and disregard for due process. Land matters in the FCT are sensitive and have long been plagued by allegations of illegal allocations. When Wike visited Plot 1946 and found naval personnel blocking access, the situation required calm enforcement of the law, not theatrics.
Reports show that when the officer declined to obey his order, Wike responded with insults such as “you are a fool.” This public humiliation of a uniformed officer was inappropriate and harmful to civil–military relations. Rather than de-escalate, the Minister heightened tensions, appearing more interested in projecting power than maintaining order. But for the restraint of his aides, the exchange might have turned physical.
The spectacle undermined institutional respect. Ministers should embody stewardship, not ego. His conduct degraded both his office and the military he insulted, sending a troubling message that officers can be belittled publicly. Conversely, the naval officer acted professionally under command and prevented further escalation; in my view, he deserves commendation, not reprimand.
The episode illustrates how arrogance in leadership erodes rule of law. If soldiers or “orders from above” can obstruct lawful administrative duties, citizens lose faith in governance. The Minister should have recorded the illegal development, issued stop-work orders, and pursued the matter through appropriate channels rather than engaging in a public confrontation.
Public officials must model restraint. Even when confronted, courtesy and process should prevail. If military personnel obstruct civil work, the Minister should address the matter with the service chiefs or the President, not engage in a roadside quarrel. His reactive posture projected personal defiance rather than institutional authority.
This incident is symptomatic of a broader governance malaise where power is performed instead of exercised responsibly. It also shows gaps in VIP protection protocols, as security personnel failed to restrain the Minister when tensions rose.
Ultimately, the Minister’s behaviour compromised public trust. He should issue a formal apology to the officer and the military. Clear protocols between the FCT Administration and the armed forces must be established to prevent misuse of military personnel in civil disputes. Good governance demands humility, respect for institutions, and adherence to due process. Office is not licence, power is not entitlement, and accountability must bind all.
