Respect for Military Uniform Is Respect for the State, Says Gen. Irabor amid Wike–Naval Officer Clash

Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd), has cautioned that any act of disrespect toward uniformed officers is an affront to the authority of the Nigerian state, following the recent altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during a national dialogue on media, terrorism, and national security at the 21st All Nigeria Editors’ Conference (ANEC) 2025, Irabor said military and security uniforms represent the power, dignity, and sovereignty of the nation.

“The uniform is not about who is wearing it; it represents the authority of the state,” he declared.

Irabor, who led the Nigerian Armed Forces from 2021 to 2023, stressed that disparaging or assaulting a person in uniform, whether junior or senior, amounts to insulting the state itself.

He described the public reactions to the Wike–naval officer encounter as “largely misguided,” noting that many commentators had “missed the real issue.”

“Even as a General, I cannot slap my soldier. If I do, I will face disciplinary action. There are laid-down mechanisms for addressing misconduct, and that is what distinguishes a state governed by law from a jungle,” he stated.

Drawing from legal principles, Irabor explained that every offence must be examined through both actus reus (the act) and mens rea (the intent), adding that while the FCT minister has authority over land matters, the incident underscores the need to respect state authority as symbolised by uniformed personnel.

The retired general also lamented what he described as a decline in civic education, saying Nigerians have lost touch with basic lessons on respect for institutions and understanding authority.

“We’ve lost our educational traction. Things that were once taught in primary and secondary schools, like respect for institutions and understanding authority, are now forgotten,” he said.

Irabor called on the media to play a more constructive role in shaping public discourse, warning that careless commentary could weaken public trust in national institutions.

“The media are the last men standing in the defence of the state. You may not have the sword, but your words carry immense power. Use them responsibly to strengthen, not weaken, the nation,” he urged.

He concluded by emphasizing the need for restraint and respect in dealing with uniformed officers, noting that there are lawful channels for redress if an officer abuses authority.

“If the person in uniform misuses his authority, he will be dealt with, but the uniform itself must be respected. That’s what sustains order in a civilised society,” Irabor said.

He warned that continued disregard for state symbols could push the nation toward lawlessness.

“We must not turn our country into a jungle where everyone takes the law into their own hands. Respect the uniform. Respect what it stands for,” he said firmly.

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