VIDEO: Wike Denies Rift with Military, Vows to Enforce Abuja Land Laws

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports of a personal feud with the military following a recent confrontation involving a naval officer at a disputed land site in Abuja, allegedly linked to a retired naval chief.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Wike said the FCT Administration (FCTA) remains guided by the rule of law and will not be intimidated or allow any individual—regardless of rank or background—to violate land use regulations or obstruct government officials performing their lawful duties.

“You are told to obey legal things. So, if, because you are a security aide to a former president or whoever, you shoot at someone, do you think you won’t be charged for murder because it was a former president that gave the order?” Wike asked.

He stressed that his decisions are not driven by emotion or sentiment, but by legal responsibility and respect for due process.

“When people have problems, we try to resolve them. But don’t use intimidation or attempt to weaken government. You cannot weaken government. Because when we allow this now, others will follow,” he said.

Wike firmly denied claims of a fallout with the armed forces, describing such reports as false and mischievous.

“I have respect for the military and I will continue to respect them because I know what they stand for. Anyone suggesting I have a problem with the military is not correct. I don’t have a problem with the military and I will not have one,” he stated.

He explained that any issues involving military personnel are handled institutionally and through proper channels, not confrontation.

“If we ever have a problem with the military, I know where to go—to the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, or even the President. That’s how institutions work. We resolve issues respectfully, not through conflict,” Wike added.

The minister also cautioned the media against sensational reporting, urging journalists to verify facts before publishing.

“Report us accurately. Do investigative journalism. Don’t twist facts or take statements out of context,” he advised.

Wike reaffirmed that the FCTA’s enforcement actions are aimed at protecting the integrity of Abuja’s master plan, noting that those who divert land originally approved for agricultural use into residential or commercial purposes without due approval will face the full weight of the law.

“Government cannot function in a lawless society. If we allow one person to violate the rules because of who he is, others will follow. That is how impunity begins. We must all obey the law irrespective of status,” he said.

Recalling his past experience as Governor of Rivers State, Wike said his consistent stance on upholding the law is often misunderstood as high-handedness, even when it is motivated by public interest.

“You can’t make everybody happy, even in your own house. But once your conscience is clear that you’re doing the right thing, you stand by it,” he noted.

The minister reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu’s vision of restoring order, discipline, and planning to the nation’s capital.

“As long as I remain FCT Minister, the law will take its course. Abuja must reflect the image of Nigeria—disciplined, planned, and lawful,” Wike declared.

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