Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has explained his involvement in a disputed land issue in Abuja’s Gaduwa District, owned by former Chief of Naval Staff Vice-Admiral Awwal Gambo, which led to a confrontation with Naval officer Lieutenant A.M. Yerima.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Wike said he intervened after ministry officials at the director level were allegedly attacked.
“How can I sit as a minister when government officials are being beaten? I can’t just remain in my office,” he said.

The minister accused Vice-Admiral Gambo of impunity and criticized Lt. Yerima for referring to accompanying police officers as “bloody police.” Wike stressed that even commissioned officers must obey lawful directives.
“People have problems. We have tried to resolve them, but don’t use intimidation or attempt to weaken the government,” he warned.

Wike emphasized his respect for the military and clarified that the dispute involved a private individual, not the institution. He cited precedents, noting that prominent Nigerians like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and General T.Y. Danjuma never used soldiers in private disputes.

He criticized media reports for exaggerating the incident and misrepresenting it as a clash with security agencies. Admitting that his actions may have “wounded people politically,” Wike said he has no regrets and will continue to act against violations where necessary.

The minister reaffirmed that the FCT will not tolerate violations of land-use regulations or obstruction of officials performing their lawful duties.
“Government cannot function in a lawless society… We must learn to obey the law irrespective of who is involved,” he said.

Wike also pledged to continue enforcing the Abuja master plan, targeting illegal developments, land grabbing, and other violations.
“As long as I remain FCT Minister, the law will take its course. Abuja must reflect the image of Nigeria disciplined, planned, and lawful,” he concluded.