- Former Labor Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has issued a statement on his X account criticizing the recent public confrontation between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a Nigerian Navy officer, describing the incident as a “national disgrace”.
- Obi said the row was a symptom of Nigeria’s “growing institutional chaos” and raised fundamental questions about governance, the misuse of military personnel in civilian disputes, a culture of impunity and a lack of respect for due process.
Former Labor Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi has commented on the recent public confrontation in Abuja involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a Nigerian Navy officer, AM Yarima.
Obi called the incident a “national disgrace” in a statement released through his X account on Wednesday.
Tuesday’s clashes reportedly occurred when military personnel prevented Wike and his security team from entering a piece of land in the Gaduwa district of Abuja, leading to a heated exchange between members of the minister’s entourage and naval officers.
Obi reacted: “Recently, there has been an unnecessary feud between the FCT Minister, the Honorable Barr. Nyesom Wike and a naval officer are yet another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional chaos in our country. What should have been a routine citizen encounter has once again become a national disgrace—a classic example of “national shame.”
“In addition to the characters involved, this incident raises fundamental questions that require honest national reflection:
“Should the military be used for purely civilian operations? Should the minister’s intervention in such a matter be carried out in such an unseemly manner if there is proper protocol in place?
“Shouldn’t there be a clear line between executive powers and the responsibilities of security agencies?
“What does this say about our respect for institutions and the separation of powers? Why are our service members so often involved in civilian disputes?
“Why does a culture of due process and civility give way to public spectacle and confrontation? If our institutions were run as they should be, would tempers erupt in situations that should be handled through clear procedures and hierarchy? Most importantly, what kind of example does an incident like this set for our younger generations on leadership, discipline and the rule of law?
“These are not just matters of one incident, they go to the heart of how our country is governed. When public officials behave outside institutional norms, and when security agencies are used in ways that blur the boundaries of their profession, we undermine governance and public trust.
“We must learn from this incident. It is time to rebuild a nation where institutions are stronger than individuals; where humility and restraint are exercised in the exercise of public office; and where the dignity of our uniformed officers and the rights of every citizen are upheld.
“A nation that aspires to greatness and feels insulted when called a nation of disgrace must replace a culture of impunity with legal discipline, order and respect for due process.
“I have repeatedly emphasized that to occupy a position and be called Your Excellency, Distinguished or Honored, how we attain such a position and that our character and conduct while in office or out of office should reflect in all respects this exemplary title.”
