Obi slams Wike-Naval clash, calls it shameful national embarrassment

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi has described the recent altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer in Abuja as a national embarrassment and a reflection of Nigeria’s deepening institutional disorder.

In a statement on his X handle on Wednesday, Obi said what should have been “a routine civic encounter” had once again degenerated into “a public spectacle,” exposing what he called the erosion of discipline, civility, and due process in public life.

“The needless altercation between the FCT Minister and a naval officer is yet another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional disorder in our country,” Obi stated.

“Beyond the personalities involved, this incident raises fundamental questions that demand honest national reflection,” he added.

He questioned why security personnel are frequently drawn into civilian disputes and why public officials continue to act outside institutional norms, saying such incidents weaken both governance and public trust.

“Should the military be used for purely civil operations?” Obi queried, saying that “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?”

The former Anambra State governor said the controversy underscored a wider problem-the blurring of professional and institutional lines that undermines Nigeria’s democratic order.

“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 added.

Obi urged Nigerians to treat the episode as an opportunity for national introspection, calling for a renewal of discipline, civility, and respect for due process in governance.

“It is time to rebuild a nation where institutions are stronger than individuals; where public office is exercised with humility and restraint; and where the dignity of our uniformed officers and the rights of every citizen are upheld,” he said.

He stressed that titles such as “His Excellency” or “Honourable” must reflect not just position, but character.

“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,” Obi wrote.

“To occupy an office and be called His Excellency or Distinguished should reflect exemplary behaviour in all ramifications.”

The statement comes amid widespread debate over a viral video showing Wike confronting a naval officer who allegedly blocked access to a disputed plot of land in Abuja’s Gaduwa area.

The incident has sparked outrage across the country and renewed calls for restraint among public officials.