The Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, witnessed a dramatic and controversial incident when the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was reportedly obstructed and assaulted by soldiers during an official visit to a disputed land in the Gaduwa District. The confrontation has ignited significant public debate over the growing concerns of land grabbing in the FCT and the alleged involvement of top security figures in land disputes.
According to statements made by the minister, the soldiers who obstructed his team were allegedly acting under the instructions of a retired senior military officer and former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd). The disputed land, identified as Plot 1946 in Gaduwa, had previously been marked for enforcement following accusations of illegal development and violation of the FCT planning regulations.
Wike’s Visit Sparks Confrontation
Minister Wike disclosed that the FCT authorities had issued a stop-work order on the land due to the absence of proper allocation documents and development approval. However, upon arriving at the location to verify enforcement compliance, he encountered armed soldiers stationed at the site.
The soldiers reportedly blocked access to the property by positioning military vehicles at the entrance. Witnesses say members of Wike’s inspection team were shoved and obstructed, while some security personnel attached to the minister attempted to de-escalate tensions.
Wike stated that the actions of the soldiers constituted a direct attempt to undermine the authority of the FCT Administration. He emphasized that no individual, regardless of rank or past position, is permitted to use state security forces for personal or private land interests.
Allegations of Land Grabbing Against Ex-Naval Chief
The minister did not mince words in pointing to the alleged role of the retired naval chief in the situation. He described the use of armed soldiers for private land control as “unacceptable, unlawful, and dangerous.”
He further called for an immediate investigation into how active-duty soldiers became involved in a dispute over civil property development. The incident has fueled long-standing public concerns over the use of security operatives as enforcers for private land dealings in Abuja.
Military High Command Responds
Following the confrontation, Wike confirmed that he contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who both assured him that the situation would be thoroughly investigated. They reportedly pledged that disciplinary measures would be taken if the involvement of the soldiers was found to be inappropriate or unauthorized.
The minister stated that he expects full cooperation from the military to ensure that the rule of law is upheld in the Federal Capital Territory.
Wike Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Illegal Development
Since assuming office, Wike has prioritized regulatory enforcement in the FCT, especially in areas of unauthorized building, encroachment on government layouts, and exploitation of public land. Over the past months, his administration has ordered several demolitions and land revocations affecting both influential figures and private developers.
He maintained that Abuja must be governed by law and urban planning standards, stressing that allowing powerful individuals to bypass regulatory procedures would set a dangerous national precedent.
Public Reaction and Governance Concerns
The incident has sent ripples through civil society, political circles, and real estate stakeholders. Many Nigerians have expressed concerns over increasing cases of land disputes involving high-profile individuals who use influence or military presence to assert control.
Analysts warn that the situation underscores the urgent need to:
- Strengthen land allocation transparency
- Reinforce separation of military operations from civil matters
- Protect public officials enforcing regulatory laws
- Ensure accountability among all former and serving security personnel
The controversy places renewed spotlight on the persistent challenge of governance, power dynamics, and property rights in Abuja.
