Wike: I’ll Keep My Opponents Awake as Long as I Stand by the Law

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, yesterday declared that he would not relent in giving his political adversaries across parties “sleepless nights” so long as he operates within the ambit of the law.

The Minister made the assertion while briefing reporters shortly after the FCT Executive Committee meeting in Abuja.

Wike, who has been under public scrutiny over a heated confrontation with a Naval officer, Lt. AM Yerima, during a land dispute in the Gaduwa district, dismissed criticisms trailing the incident, insisting he acted to protect the integrity of the FCT’s development plans.

The land in contention was originally designated for Parks and Recreation but was allegedly being converted for other uses by its owner, former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Awwal Gambo (rtd.).

Attempts by FCT officials to halt the alteration were reportedly resisted by military personnel deployed to the site.

An aggrieved Wike subsequently stormed the location with his team, but they were denied access, leading to a heated exchange that has since sparked nationwide debate.

Unfazed by the backlash, Wike maintained that he owed no apologies to political forces displeased with his firmness.

His words:
“I have no regret. I will continue to make my opponents have sleepless nights, whether you are in PDP, APC or ADC. As long as I know I am standing by the law, bring any colouration or ethnicity you like — it’s your business.”

The Minister insisted that uniformed personnel have no obligation to carry out illegal orders, adding that Abuja’s masterplan must be protected from all forms of encroachment.