Wike–Navy Officer Clash: Group Warns Against Undermining Civil Authority!

Wike–Navy Officer Clash: Group Warns Against Undermining Civil Authority!

Reported By Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) have raised concerns over a recent confrontation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer, Lt. A. Yerima, urging respect for civilian leadership and rule of law.

The altercation reportedly occurred when Lt. Yerima allegedly blocked the Minister from accessing a disputed parcel of land in the Guzape district of Abuja, which falls under the jurisdiction of the FCT Administration.

“It is dangerous for military personnel to challenge constituted civil authority in public. Nigeria must not drift into a state where uniformed officers feel emboldened to defy ministers,” the NCYP warned in a statement on Thursday.

Key Details:

• The disputed land is said to be designated for public use, but a naval barracks reportedly claimed part of it, leading to the standoff.
• Eyewitnesses said Wike arrived with FCTA officials for inspection but was obstructed by the officer.
• The NCYP stated that while the military plays a vital national role, it must operate within constitutional limits under civilian oversight.

Why It Matters:

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between security agencies and civil authorities in Nigeria.

• It raises constitutional questions about land administration powers, especially in the FCT, where only the minister holds statutory authority over land allocation.
• Civil-military relations are critical to maintaining democratic stability, particularly in sensitive urban areas like Abuja.

What to Watch:

• Whether the Nigerian Navy will issue disciplinary measures or a clarification regarding the officer’s actions.
• The FCT Administration’s next steps in asserting its control over disputed lands.
• Possible legislative or executive actions to prevent similar confrontations in the future.

Citations:

1. The Punch – “Group faults naval officer’s confrontation with Wike” (Nov. 14, 2025)
2. Vanguard – “Land Dispute: Youths back Wike, warn against military interference”
3. Channels TV – “FCT Minister, Naval Officer Clash Over Abuja Land”
4. Premium Times – “Group cautions Navy on confrontation with FCT Minister” (Nov. 2025)

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

See author's posts