THIS DAWN — Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has weighed in on the recent altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer in Abuja.
Mr. Obi described the incident as “a national embarrassment” and “a symptom of Nigeria’s growing institutional disorder.”
In a statement titled “Wike versus Naval Officer: A Lesson for National Reflection,” Obi condemned the confrontation, saying it reflects deeper issues about governance, civility, and the erosion of institutional respect in the country.
“A Routine Encounter Turned National Embarrassment”
According to Obi, what should have been “a routine civic encounter” between a public official and a security personnel has once again degenerated into “a needless public spectacle.
In his view, it “exposes the fragility of Nigeria’s institutions and the absence of decorum among those entrusted with power.”
Obi said: “The recent needless altercation between the FCT Minister, His Excellency Barr. Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer is yet another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional disorder in our country.
“Beyond the personalities involved, this incident raises fundamental questions that demand honest national reflection.”
Questions on Institutional Roles and Protocols
Obi went on to pose several critical questions aimed at examining Nigeria’s governance culture and civil–military relations:
“Should the military be used for purely civil operations?
“If proper protocols were in place, should a Minister’s intervention in such a matter be in such an indecorous manner?”
“Shouldn’t there be clear boundaries between administrative authority and the duties of security agencies?
“Why are our men and women in uniform so often drawn into civilian disputes?”
He argued that such clashes point to a broader national malaise — the erosion of respect for institutional boundaries and the rule of law.
“When public officials act beyond institutional norms, and when security agencies are used in ways that blur their professional boundaries, we weaken both governance and public trust,” he said.
“We Must Build Institutions, Not Personalities”
The former Anambra State governor emphasized that the episode should serve as a wake-up call for Nigeria to rebuild strong institutions that are not subject to the whims of powerful individuals.
“We must learn from this episode.
“It is time to rebuild a nation where institutions are stronger than individuals; where public office is exercised with humility and restraint; where the dignity of our uniformed officers and the rights of every citizen are upheld,” Obi declared.
He maintained that the path to national greatness lies in restoring discipline, respect for law, and civility in governance, not in perpetuating a culture of impunity and power display.
“A country that aspires to greatness and feels insulted when referred to as a ‘disgraced nation’ must replace the culture of impunity with the discipline of law, order, and respect for due process,” he added.
Leadership and the Burden of Example
Obi reiterated his long-held view that leadership should be grounded in moral integrity.
He said the titles attached to public office — such as His Excellency, Distinguished, or Honourable — must be reflected in both conduct and character.
“To occupy an office and be referred to as His Excellency, Distinguished, or Honourable, how we get to such an office and our behaviour while holding it or out of it should reflect those exemplary titles in all ramifications,” he stated.
A Call for a New National Ethic
Obi concluded his statement by urging Nigerians to embrace introspection and institutional renewal as part of the country’s journey toward a better future.
“These are not just questions about one incident — they go to the very heart of how our nation is governed.
“A New Nigeria is possible, but only if we rebuild the foundation of discipline, respect, and justice upon which great nations stand,” he said.
Background
The confrontation between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a naval officer reportedly occurred during a routine traffic stop in Abuja.
A video of the incident went viral on social media, sparking widespread debate about abuse of power, civil–military relations, and respect for institutional roles.
Peter Obi’s intervention marks one of the most prominent calls yet for reflection on the deeper governance issues exposed by the controversy.
