A tense confrontation erupted in Abuja when soldiers prevented the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, and officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) from entering a disputed plot of land in the Gaduwa district. Videos of the incident circulated widely, sparking nationwide reactions.
Summary of the incident
Multiple reports confirm that soldiers stationed at Gaduwa blocked entry to a parcel of land reportedly marked for demolition by the FCTA. When Minister Wike, accompanied by senior FCTA officials, arrived to inspect the area, military personnel allegedly parked their truck across the access road, refusing entry. The encounter quickly escalated into a heated verbal exchange, which was captured on video and shared across social media platforms.
Timeline of events
- Arrival at site: Wike and his team arrived at the disputed plot to enforce a stop-work order against alleged illegal structures.
- Military obstruction: Soldiers positioned at the site blocked the minister’s convoy, claiming they were acting under orders.
- Verbal confrontation: Wike questioned the soldiers, demanding to know who instructed them to stop a minister of the FCT from accessing land under federal jurisdiction.
- Viral footage: Videos from the scene showed the minister visibly upset, insisting that the act was illegal and disrespectful to civilian authority.
- Aftermath: The situation ended without violence, but the event has raised legal and political questions about military involvement in civil land enforcement.
Eyewitness accounts
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the tension as “intense.” Several said that the soldiers maintained a firm stance, repeatedly stating they were “acting on orders.” In the viral video, Wike can be heard challenging them, saying he would not be intimidated by anyone misusing military power.
Background on the disputed land
The land in question lies in Gaduwa District, one of Abuja’s fast-developing areas. Reports indicate that the property may have been allocated to a senior military officer, prompting the involvement of soldiers. The FCTA had previously issued demolition notices over alleged illegal development on the land.
This isn’t the first time Wike’s urban enforcement drive has clashed with vested interests. Since assuming office as FCT Minister, he has led several demolitions targeting illegal estates, encroachments, and land racketeering, often earning both praise and criticism.
Political and legal implications
The confrontation raises concerns about the balance of power between civilian authorities and the military in Nigeria. Analysts argue that soldiers interfering with a serving minister during an official duty undermines civilian oversight and governance.
The FCTA has reportedly filed a formal complaint with Defence Headquarters, seeking clarification on the soldiers’ chain of command.
Public reaction
The confrontation has sparked widespread reactions online. While some Nigerians praised Wike’s courage for confronting the soldiers, others called for calm, urging the government to investigate the matter thoroughly to prevent future power tussles between civilian authorities and the armed forces.
What happens next
- FCTA to release an official report on the Gaduwa incident.
- Defence Headquarters expected to clarify who authorized the soldiers’ deployment.
- Possible joint investigation between FCTA and the military to prevent recurrence.
- Continued monitoring of Abuja land reforms under Wike’s leadership.