The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described as “unfortunate” a confrontation that occurred on Tuesday between himself and an unidentified military officer over an alleged case of land grabbing in Abuja.
Addressing journalists, Wike stated that the FCT Administration had been investigating suspected illegal property developments in the area before the military allegedly intervened to stop enforcement officials.
“When they came here, I was informed that the military had come to chase them away, and I thought they were acting illegally,” the minister said. “So today, while I was in the office, they came to implement the directive given to them by me, and I was told that the military had taken over the place. I had to come personally. It is really unfortunate.”
Wike criticised the officer for allegedly attempting to use his military background to intimidate government officials, stressing that he would not yield to threats or blackmail.
“I do not understand how somebody who attained such a position cannot come to my office to clarify issues but instead uses his position to intimidate Nigerians. I am not one who will succumb to
blackmail or intimidation,” he added.The minister further challenged the officer to provide valid documents authorising the land ownership and construction on the disputed property.
“Where are the documents? Bring the approval! You don’t have it. How can we continue to allow lawlessness to prevail in the country?” Wike queried.
He confirmed contacting the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who assured him that the matter would be handled appropriately.
“We are not here to cause chaos, but I will not allow this illegality to stand. The fact that he is a former Chief of Naval Staff does not give him the right to take land unlawfully,” the minister declared.
A video trending Online shows Wike confronting the officer, questioning why the military was allegedly being used to seize land.
“Because you are an officer? Nobody does that. The man took land because he was the Chief of Naval Staff?” Wike was heard saying in the clip.
Land disputes and unauthorised developments remain a persistent challenge in Abuja. Since assuming office in August 2023, Wike has intensified efforts to enforce the Abuja Master Plan, tackling illegal structures, encroachments, and questionable land allocations across the city.
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