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Former Niger Delta militant leader, Asari Dokubo, on Wednesday, criticized the confrontation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and several military officers regarding a disputed piece of land in Abuja.
A senior Naval officer, claiming to act on the orders of the former Chief of Naval Staff, Awal Gambo, engaged Wike in a heated dispute and prevented the Minister and officials from the FCT Administration from accessing the contested property.
The situation escalated into a tense argument between Wike and the military personnel.
In response, Asari stated that the officer involved should be disciplined and court-martialed by the relevant authorities.
In a video posted on Facebook, Asari remarked: “I’m not siding with Wike; I’m advocating for the law, the rules, and the conventions. What transpired yesterday, in any reasonable society, would result in that individual being reprimanded and detained.
“The altercation between the military officer and the Minister of FCT was unnecessary. The Minister serves as the governor of the FCT and, constitutionally, he is the chief security officer of Abuja, second only to the president.
“While I may not be fond of Wike, and our relationship has had its ups and downs, in any reasonable society, that officer should have faced court-martial. Such an incident would not occur anywhere outside Nigeria.
“There are laws governing Abuja, and no one has the right to develop a property without adhering to the established rules and regulations regarding property development.
“A military officer is subject to the constitution; he is not above it. If Wike had not attended the site, they would claim that government officials do not take their responsibilities seriously.
“In an executive system of government, the responsibility lies with the executive officer. I see nothing wrong with the Minister's visit to the site. My only concern was the language he used when he was leaving.
“No one should tolerate such disrespect from someone who, by law, is supposed to regard you as his superior.”
FAQs
What was the cause of the argument between Nyesom Wike and the military officers?
The argument arose over a disputed piece of land in Abuja, where a senior Naval officer attempted to prevent Wike and his officials from accessing the property.
What did Asari Dokubo suggest should happen to the military officer involved?
Asari Dokubo suggested that the military officer should be reprimanded and court-martialed by the appropriate authorities for his actions.
What is Asari Dokubo's stance on the incident?
Asari Dokubo emphasized that he is not taking sides with Wike but rather advocating for adherence to the law and proper conduct, stating that the officer's behavior was unacceptable.
