Amanze Chinonye
A tense confrontation unfolded in Abuja on Tuesday as soldiers blocked Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike from inspecting a disputed parcel of land in the Gaduwa District.
The incident, captured on video and widely shared online, has drawn attention to the growing involvement of military personnel in civil land disputes.
The confrontation occurred at Plot 1946, Gaduwa District, where Wike and officials from the FCT Administration were conducting an inspection as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal land acquisition and unapproved construction across the capital. Armed soldiers reportedly stopped the minister’s convoy, citing orders to secure the property.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelVideo footage shows a visibly agitated Wike challenging the soldiers, demanding to see the documents authorizing their deployment.
“Show me the document you have. You have no document,” he declared, insisting that no one is above the law.
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The minister accused the officers of intimidation and obstruction, saying their actions were an attempt to shield illegal structures.
“Even if you are a lieutenant general or vice admiral, it means nothing. The government must function according to law,” Wike said.
Eyewitnesses said the altercation escalated when members of Wike’s entourage questioned the authenticity of the land documents presented by the military. Plainclothes security personnel and police were seen shielding the minister and his team during the heated exchange.
Reports indicate that the contested land is linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retired). Wike maintained that FCTA records show no valid allocation, title, or building permit for the property, describing its occupation as illegal and an act of land grabbing.
He further alleged that the presence of armed soldiers could have endangered lives and said he had contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff for clarification.
The soldiers, in turn, insisted they were acting under lawful orders and performing their duty to protect the premises. No official documents were publicly presented during the confrontation.
This incident comes amid the FCTA’s intensified crackdown on illegal land allocations, encroachments, and unauthorized developments in Abuja. Since assuming office, Minister Wike has led an assertive campaign to reclaim government land and ensure compliance with urban planning regulations.
Tuesday’s confrontation underscores the challenges his administration faces, particularly when enforcing laws against individuals with political or military connections.
As of reporting, neither the Nigerian Navy nor the Defence Headquarters had issued official statements on the matter, and the FCTA has not released a formal report.
Analysts note that the episode highlights ongoing concerns about the misuse of military personnel in civil matters and raises broader questions about governance, law enforcement, and urban development in Nigeria’s capital.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
