Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has explained his visit to a disputed 2.5-acre land in Gaduwa, Abuja, owned by former Chief of Naval Staff Vice-Admiral Awwal Gambo. The minister’s attempt to access the site led to a confrontation with Navy Lieutenant A.M. Yerima.
Speaking to reporters before the FCT Executive Council meeting, Wike said he acted because ministry officials, including directors, had been attacked. “How can I sit as a minister when government officials are being beaten? I cannot just stay in my office,” he said.
He accused Vice-Admiral Gambo of impunity and Lt. Yerima of insulting police officers accompanying him.
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Wike stressed that the matter concerned a private individual and not the military, noting that he respects the Armed Forces hierarchy and normally resolves issues institutionally through the Chief of Defence Staff or service chiefs.
Wike compared the incident to previous land disputes involving eminent Nigerians, such as former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and generals like T.Y. Danjuma, who contacted him directly without deploying security personnel. He said the current matter had been exaggerated by some media outlets.
The minister reaffirmed that the FCT government will not tolerate violations of land regulations or obstruction of officials performing lawful duties. He warned that illegal land conversions and developments would face legal consequences.
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Stressing his commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a disciplined and orderly Abuja, Wike said: “As long as I remain FCT Minister, the law will take its course. Impunity and lawlessness will not be allowed to prevail in the nation’s capital.”
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
