Buratai
Picnews
Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has slammed Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, over his heated argument with military personnel at a disputed plot of land in Abuja, saying his actions undermine national security and the integrity of the Armed Forces.
Buratai is calling for Wike to issue an immediate apology to President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and the officer involved. He believes Wike’s verbal assault on the soldier is a profound act of indiscipline that disrespects the authority of the Commander-in-Chief and damages the morale of the military.
The incident has sparked concerns about the limits of ministerial power and the importance of respecting security institutions. Buratai warns that if left unchecked, such actions could set a dangerous precedent, weakening discipline and compromising the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security apparatus.
The controversy began when Wike confronted military personnel who were allegedly guarding a plot of land claimed by a private citizen, with Wike asserting that the land falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Capital Territory Administration. The situation escalated quickly, with Wike engaging in a heated exchange with the soldiers, prompting Buratai’s strong reaction.
Buratai’s statement highlights the need for public figures to maintain respect for the country’s security agencies and the rule of law. He emphasized that Wike’s behavior is particularly concerning given his position as a government minister and his responsibility to uphold the law. The former COAS also pointed out that the military personnel involved were simply following standard operating procedures and should not have been subjected to verbal abuse.
The incident has sparked a heated debate about the role of politicians in undermining national security and the need for accountability. Many are calling for Wike to apologize and for the authorities to take action to prevent similar incidents in the future. The situation remains tense, with many wondering what the implications will be for Wike and the PDP.
