The recent confrontation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, and a Naval officer has sparked widespread public debate, with many viewing the incident as symptomatic of deeper institutional and governance issues in Nigeria.
Reacting to the development, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, described the altercation as “yet another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional disorder in our country.”
In a statement titled “Wike versus Naval Officer: A Lesson for National Reflection,” Obi lamented what he called a disturbing erosion of due process and mutual respect between public officials and uniformed personnel.
“What should ordinarily be a routine civic encounter has, once again, become a national embarrassment; a typical example coming out of a ‘disgraced country,’” Obi stated.
“Should the military be used for purely civil operations? Should a Minister’s intervention in such a matter be in such an indecorous manner? Shouldn’t there be clear boundaries between administrative authority and the duties of security agencies?” he asked.
According to him, the incident goes beyond the personalities involved and exposes a recurring failure to uphold institutional discipline and separation of powers. Obi stressed that when security agencies are deployed for non-military roles or when officials act beyond established norms, both governance and public trust suffer.
“A country that aspires to greatness and feels insulted when referred to as a disgraced nation must replace the culture of impunity with the discipline of law, order, and respect for due process,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor called for a renewed national commitment to rebuilding strong institutions where “public office is exercised with humility and restraint, and where the dignity of uniformed officers and the rights of every citizen are upheld.”
“To occupy an office and be referred to as His Excellency, Distinguished, or Honourable, our character and behaviour while holding such office should reflect those titles in all ramifications. A New Nigeria is POssible.”
