Abuja’s land controversies took a dramatic turn on Tuesday after a video surfaced showing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in a fierce confrontation with a military officer over an alleged case of land grabbing in the Gaduwa district.
In the now-viral clip, Wike accused the officer of unlawfully seizing a parcel of land connected to a former Chief of Naval Staff, a claim the officer strongly denied. What began as a verbal exchange quickly escalated into a tense standoff between the two men, both visibly determined to have the last word.
“Because you’re an officer? Nobody does that. The man took land because he was Chief of Naval Staff?” Wike said in anger. The officer, dressed in full camouflage, shot back: “I am an officer with integrity. Everything was acquired legally.”
Wike’s irritation grew as he ordered the officer to “keep quiet,” only for the soldier to reply, “I will not shut up.” The back-and-forth continued until the minister fired, “You are a very big fool. As at the time I graduated, you were still in primary school.”
When Power Meets Property
The confrontation, which has dominated social media discussions since Tuesday morning, reflects the deep-rooted tension surrounding land ownership in Nigeria’s capital. Over the years, disputes involving senior officials, developers, and even security agencies have become common, often exposing the blurred lines between authority, entitlement, and legality.
According to reports, the officer maintained that he was acting on official orders and had been deployed to protect the site. However, Wike’s response suggested otherwise, warning that the government would not tolerate encroachment, no matter who was involved.
Also read: Abuja Community Residents Flee Homes Amid Nigerian Army Land Dispute
Neither the Nigerian military nor the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued an official statement as of press time, but the incident has sparked widespread debate about accountability and the misuse of power in land-related matters.
A Minister on a Mission
Since assuming office in August 2023, Wike has built a reputation for his no-nonsense approach to urban management. His tenure has been marked by demolitions of illegal structures, strict enforcement of zoning rules, and an open vow to “restore the Abuja Master Plan.”
The Gaduwa confrontation adds a new layer to his ongoing crusade, one that raises fresh questions about how far the FCTA can go in reclaiming lands allegedly taken through political or institutional privilege.
While critics see Wike’s outburst as excessive, supporters argue that his firmness is necessary in a city where influence often overshadows justice. What’s clear, however, is that Abuja’s land battles are far from over, and Tuesday’s clash may just be the latest spark in a long-burning dispute over who truly owns the capital’s soil.
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