Wike, Soldiers clash a typical example of a ‘disgraced country’ – Peter Obi

Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has reacted to the recent confrontation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer over a disputed piece of land in Abuja, describing the incident as a “national embarrassment.”

In a statement shared on his verified social media handles titled “Wike versus Naval Officer: A Lesson for National Reflection,” Obi lamented the growing institutional disorder in the country, saying the altercation reflects a deeper problem within Nigeria’s governance structure.

“The recent needless altercation between the FCT Minister, HE, Barr. Nyesom Wike and a Naval officer is yet another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional disorder in our country.

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 wrote.

He questioned the frequent involvement of the military in civil matters, stressing that such confrontations expose the lack of respect for institutional boundaries and due process.

“Should the military be used for purely civil operations? If proper protocols were in place, 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.

Obi added that incidents like this erode public trust and weaken governance. “When public officials act beyond institutional norms, and when security agencies are used in ways that blur their professional boundaries, we weaken both governance and public trust,” he stated.

The former Anambra governor emphasized the need for a Nigeria where institutions are stronger than individuals, calling for a return to civility, discipline, and respect for due process in public affairs.

“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.

Reiterating his long-held view on leadership ethics, Obi concluded: “To occupy an office and be referred to as His Excellency, Distinguished or Honourable, how we get to such an office and our character and behaviour while holding it or out of it should reflect such exemplary titles in all ramifications. A New Nigeria is POssible.”

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