Sowore Blasts Military Over Clash With Wike on Disputed Abuja Land

Human rights campaigner and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has faulted the military’s role in the recent clash between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and some armed officers over a disputed piece of land in Abuja.

The incident occurred when Wike was denied access to a property reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (retd.). A viral video showed the minister confronting the soldiers stationed at the site, questioning their authority to block his entry.

Reacting on his X handle, Sowore described the military’s involvement in the dispute as a misuse of resources, saying their duty is to defend the nation, not protect land tied to a retired officer. He stated that the event exposed deep-rooted corruption and the growing influence of personal interests in government institutions.

Sowore also recalled a similar occurrence during Wike’s tenure as Rivers State governor, accusing him of previously obstructing anti-corruption officers from carrying out their duties. He said the latest episode was another reflection of Nigeria’s weak governance culture, where public officials act without accountability.

The confrontation has sparked debate across social media. While some users supported Sowore’s criticism of military interference, others urged caution, insisting that the full details of the land ownership and orders behind the deployment should be made public.

Political commentator Zara Onyinye also weighed in, defending Wike and criticising former Aviation Minister, Osita Chidoka, for asking the minister to apologise to the military officer involved. Onyinye argued that in a democracy, civilian authority must take precedence over the military, and accused critics of politicising the issue because of their personal grievances against Wike.

She maintained that the military should not be involved in civil property disputes, stressing that such actions weaken democratic control and show a pattern of intimidation by retired officers using their influence to secure land.

The clash comes weeks after the Federal Capital Territory Administration demolished several police buildings in the Apo area for violating development regulations. Wike has maintained that the disputed land was not legally approved for construction and vowed to take further action through the appropriate government channels.

As of press time, the Nigerian Navy has yet to issue a statement on the matter, with its spokesperson declining to comment when contacted.