Veterans Condemn Wike for Insulting Naval Officer, Demand Public Apology

A coalition of military veterans has strongly condemned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his verbal confrontation with a naval officer during an enforcement visit to a disputed land in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Coalition of Retired Veterans through its spokesman, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, described Wike’s outburst as “unbecoming of a public office holder,” accusing the minister of insulting a serving officer on camera.

“How can a public office holder call an officer ‘a fool’ on camera?” Durowaiye-Herberts queried. “If he were responsible, he should have addressed his concerns through the Chief of Naval Staff instead of attempting to disgrace a serving officer in public.”

The veterans emphasised that uniformed officers represent the authority of the Nigerian state, and that any public humiliation of such personnel erodes respect for national institutions.

They also rejected suggestions that disciplinary action be taken against the naval officer, warning that any such move would be met with strong resistance.
“If for any reason the officer is punished, military veterans will occupy the office and residence of the FCT Minister,” Durowaiye-Herberts cautioned.

The group reminded public officials that security operatives owe loyalty to the Nigerian state, not to individuals, and demanded that Wike publicly apologise for his conduct.

“Wike’s action demeans the dignity of the office of a minister,” the statement read. “He should apologise for using abusive language. It is not acceptable behaviour.”

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