Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The clash between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a Naval Officer has drawn the ire of military veterans across the country.
The veterans strongly condemned the confrontation, which occurred during an enforcement visit to a disputed land in Abuja on Tuesday, and demanded an immediate apology from the Minister.
In a viral video, an enraged Wike was seen using abusive language on the officer, who maintained his composure throughout the encounter.
Spokesman of the Coalition of Retired Veterans, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, in a statement, criticised Wike for verbally assaulting the officer during the confrontation.
According to the veterans, a public office holder should never use abusive language against security personnel carrying out official duties.
“How can a public office holder call an officer ‘a fool’ on camera? If he were responsible, he should have engaged the Chief of Naval Staff privately rather than attempting to disgrace a serving officer,” Durowaiye-Herberts said.
He stressed that a uniformed officer represents the authority of the Nigerian state, and that disrespecting such an officer undermines public institutions.
The veterans also faulted calls for disciplinary action against the officer, warning that any such move would be strongly resisted.
“If for any reason the officer is punished, military veterans will occupy the office and residence of the FCT Minister,” he warned.
The veterans maintained that military officers swear loyalty to the country and not to individual public officials, insisting that Wike should apologise to the officer.
“Wike’s action demeans the dignity of the office of a minister. He should apologise for using abusive language. It is not acceptable behaviour,” Durowaiye-Herberts added.
