ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — Former Senator Shehu Sani has cautioned Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike against confrontational behavior with military personnel, following a widely circulated video showing Wike in a tense exchange with soldiers guarding a disputed property in Abuja.
The incident occurred at Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District, where Wike and officials from the FCT Administration attempted to access land allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff. Soldiers stationed at the site reportedly blocked the officials, prompting Wike to challenge their presence.
In the video, Wike is seen arguing with a uniformed officer, accusing the military of unlawfully protecting private interests. The confrontation quickly escalated, with Wike using harsh language to assert his authority.
Shehu Sani, a former lawmaker known for his advocacy on civil-military relations, responded by urging Wike to avoid provocative actions. He said the minister’s efforts in Abuja were commendable but warned that direct confrontations with soldiers could undermine institutional respect and public safety.
Public reactions to the incident have been mixed. “Wike is doing a good job cleaning up Abuja, but he should be careful with how he handles the military,” said Ibrahim Musa, a civil servant in the capital. “We don’t want a situation that escalates beyond control.”
Others defended Wike’s approach. “He’s the only one bold enough to confront the rot in the system,” said Ngozi Eze, a business owner. “If soldiers are protecting illegal land grabs, someone has to speak up.”
Some residents expressed concern about the tone of the exchange. “There’s a way to assert authority without insults,” said Chinedu Okafor, a retired teacher. “Respect goes both ways, even in leadership.”
Observers say the episode highlights the need for clearer boundaries between civil authority and military involvement in urban governance. They argue that disputes over land should be resolved through legal and administrative channels, not street-level confrontations.
Wike has made land recovery a central part of his agenda since assuming office, targeting encroachments and irregular allocations. His hands-on approach has earned both praise and criticism.
The military has not issued a formal response to the incident, and it remains unclear whether disciplinary or procedural reviews will follow. Meanwhile, the FCT Administration is expected to continue its efforts to reclaim disputed properties across Abuja.
