Former military generals have voiced their outrage over a recent confrontation between Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, and a naval officer, A. Yerima, concerning allegations of land grabbing.
In separate interviews, the veterans condemned the altercation, stating it undermines the chain of command and respect for military institutions. In response to the incident, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru announced that an investigation would be conducted, reinforcing that the Armed Forces will always protect personnel engaged in lawful duties. He praised Yerima for his composure during the confrontation.
The confrontation reportedly stemmed from a dispute over land allegedly seized by the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (retd.). Wike accused Gambo of illegally appropriating the land, leading to a heated exchange that was captured on video.
Retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai criticized Wike’s actions, asserting the need for a public apology to the President, the military, and the officer involved. Buratai emphasized that Wike’s disrespectful conduct undermines national security and the military’s integrity.
Brigadier General Peter Aro (retd.) called for adherence to democratic principles, stating that the officer was merely following lawful orders. He cautioned that public confrontations like Wike’s risk eroding institutional respect and undermining governmental stability.
Retired Brigadier General Bashir Adewinbi described the incident as unacceptable, arguing that a confrontation with a military officer is effectively a challenge to the President himself.
In defending Wike, his Senior Special Assistant, Lere Olayinka, claimed that the incident was the result of a land scam that misled the former navy chief. He stated that the land in question was originally designated for park and recreation and had been illegally partitioned and sold by a company.
Several legal experts weighed in, with some stating that the naval officer’s actions were unlawful and a breach of military conduct. They cited that military personnel are not allowed to obstruct public officials in the exercise of their duties. Others noted that while Wike may have acted inappropriately, his authority as a minister grants him the right to address land disputes.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions between civilian authority and military personnel, with warnings from legal experts that such conduct could have dangerous repercussions for civil-military relations in Nigeria.
