Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to Tuesday’s confrontation between him and an unidentified military officer during an alleged land-grabbing enforcement operation in Abuja, describing the incident as “unfortunate.”
Wike said he would not be intimidated or blackmailed by anyone, insisting that his administration would continue to enforce the law strictly.
Speaking at a press briefing, the minister explained that the FCT Administration had been investigating reports of illegal land developments when the altercation occurred. He said enforcement officials were carrying out directives from his office when soldiers reportedly intervened to stop them.
“When they came here, I was informed that the military came to chase them away, and I thought they were acting illegally. So today, while I was in the office, they came to implement the directive that I gave. I was told that the military had taken over the place, and I had to come myself. It is really unfortunate,” Wike stated.
He condemned the officer involved, accusing him of using his military influence to intimidate government officials.
“I don’t understand how someone in such a position cannot come to my office to resolve issues but instead uses his military background to intimidate Nigerians. I am not one who will succumb to blackmail or intimidation,” he said.
Wike challenged the officer to present legal documents for the disputed land. “Where are the documents? Bring them. You don’t have approval for building. How can we continue to allow lawlessness to prevail in this country?” he asked.
The minister added that he had contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, both of whom assured him that the matter would be addressed.
“We are not here to cause chaos, but I will not allow it to happen. He will not carry out this illegal development just because he is a former Chief of Naval Staff. I will not allow it,” Wike maintained.
In a video obtained by PUNCH Online, Wike was seen confronting the officer and accusing him of using the military to claim land illegally. “Because you are an officer? Nobody does that. The man took land because he was the Chief of Naval Staff?” he said during the exchange.
Land disputes and illegal developments have long plagued Abuja. Since assuming office in August 2023, Wike has intensified the FCT Administration’s crackdown on unauthorized land acquisitions, illegal buildings, and encroachments, pledging to fully restore the Abuja Master Plan.