Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep concern over recent incidents involving security personnel and the growing trend of intimidation directed at government officials.
Reacting to a recent incident involving a naval officer, Wike questioned how public servants could effectively discharge their duties in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
“How can I effectively serve as a minister when government officials are being attacked and intimidated?” Wike asked. “These are public servants, yet they face threats while sitting in their offices, trying to perform their duties. How can they carry out their responsibilities if they feel unprotected?”
The minister emphasized that respect and protocol remain fundamental in public service, recalling how respected national figures such as former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and retired General Theophilus Danjuma handle official matters.
“I’ve had calls from respected figures like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and General Theophilus Danjuma. When they encounter a problem, they call a minister directly — there’s no intimidation, no threat, just respect. And I ensure their issues are addressed promptly. That is how respect and protocol work,” he said.
Wike also cited past incidents of indiscipline within the military, noting that he had always adhered to due process and institutional hierarchy in seeking resolution.
“For instance, when a serving major general attacked a control officer, I immediately wrote to the President and the Chief of Defence Staff, who was then the Chief of Army Staff, to address the matter. Everything falls under the authority and control of the military, and proper channels must be observed,” he explained.
The minister further disclosed that before he assumed office, several contracts had been awarded for the development of areas around military barracks, but the projects were stalled after contractors were chased away.
“I intervened by engaging the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olabanji, and other defense officials to resolve the issue peacefully. I have always respected established processes and continue to prioritize resolution through dialogue rather than confrontation,” Wike added.
