By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has thrown its weight behind a naval officer who stood his ground against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, during a recent confrontation in the Gudu district of Abuja.
The incident, which was captured on video, showed the minister engaged in a heated argument with the officer, who was preventing the FCT team from accessing a disputed piece of land.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military high command commended the officer’s conduct.
The statement emphasized the importance of serving the nation with “honesty, integrity, and honour,” while adhering to orders with discipline and respect.
“It is a virtue to serve the nation with honesty and integrity. The military encourages any officer who stands to protect the dignity of the nation and its laws with honour,” the DHQ stated.
The land in question is reportedly owned by the immediate-past Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd).
The confrontation has highlighted ongoing tensions over land disputes in the capital city.
Security and government authorities are said to be investigating the incident to establish the full facts and prevent any further friction between civil ministries and the armed forces.