Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike on Monday clashed with naval officers who allegedly blocked an attempted demolition at Plot 1946, Buffer Transit Southern Park Way, Gaduwa District, Abuja. The officers, reportedly acting on orders from retired Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, former Chief of Naval Staff, prevented bulldozers from accessing the site.

Wike, accompanied by senior FCT administration officials, visited the plot, which is owned by Vice Admiral Gambo, to enforce a demolition order issued by the Department of Development Control. The officers reportedly stationed a truck to block entry and physically confronted the Minister, insisting he would not be allowed access.

Despite being pushed aside, Wike attempted to proceed into the site with his security aides but eventually retreated after making and receiving phone calls. He later vowed that the illegal development would not be allowed to continue.

“The developer has no approvals or legal documents to develop the land. It is unacceptable that someone uses their military background to intimidate government officials enforcing the law,” Wike said. “I have contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, and they assured me the matter would be resolved. We will not allow lawlessness to prevail in this country.”

The Minister emphasized that he would not tolerate attempts to use security personnel to obstruct regulatory enforcement, stressing that the law applies to everyone, regardless of their status or former positions in the military. Authorities have promised to investigate the sequence of events and ensure that the enforcement of development regulations proceeds without interference.