Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle criticised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a confrontation with a naval officer at a disputed Wike land site in Abuja.
Minister warned Wike before land visit
Matawalle said Wike ignored clear advice from the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff. Both service chiefs told him to wait for an official investigation before visiting the area.
In an interview with DCL Hausa, Matawalle described the clash as unfortunate. He said Lieutenant AY Yerima followed lawful orders and acted according to military discipline.
Officer acted within military rules
“What happened between Minister Wike and the officer is unfortunate,” Matawalle said. He explained that the officer told Wike he followed instructions from his superiors. The defence minister added that Wike should have directed his concerns to the chain of command instead of exchanging words at the Wike land site.
He emphasised that the officer committed no offence under military law. “Anyone who disrespects a soldier also disrespects the President, who commands the Armed Forces,” he said.
Chain-of-command should guide land dispute handling
Matawalle clarified that his comments do not excuse indiscipline. He said Wike contacted the CDS and CNS, who both advised him to wait for a formal inquiry. Wike, however, personally visited the site, which triggered the altercation.
The Chief of Naval Staff visited the site to begin a full investigation into ownership of the Wike land, Matawalle confirmed. He said authorities must follow administrative and diplomatic procedures for any land revocation.
Conclusion
Matawalle added that the Ministry of Defence has not received any formal complaint from Wike. After the viral video, he called the minister to advise him to follow proper channels in the future. With the Chief of Naval Staff now leading the investigation, officials will determine who legally owns the land.
