Wike, naval officer clash a symptom of institutional decay, says Peter Obi

• Calls for national reflection, stronger institutions

By Grace Edet
Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has described the recent altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a Naval officer, Lieutenant Ahmad M. Yerima, as another glaring example of the country’s deepening institutional disorder and disregard for due process.
Obi said the incident, which has generated widespread public debate, underscores the erosion of civility and respect for institutional boundaries in governance.
In a statement posted on his official X handle, “The recent needless altercation between the FCT Minister, HE, Barr. Nyesom Wike and a Naval officer are yet another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional disorder in our country. What should ordinarily be a routine civic encounter has, once again, become a national embarrassment — a typical example coming out of a ‘disgraced country.’”
The former governor urged Nigerians to look beyond the individuals involved and reflect on the broader governance issues that the incident exposes.
He said: “Beyond the personalities involved, this incident raises fundamental questions that demand honest national reflection.
“Should the military be used for purely civil operations? 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?”
Obi questioned the recurring misuse of security institutions for civilian matters, stressing that such practices weaken both governance and public trust.
“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 stated.
He further called for the rebuilding of the nation’s institutions to restore discipline, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
“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 said.
The former presidential candidate lamented the growing culture of impunity among public officials, urging a return to civility and responsible conduct in governance.
“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 stated.
Reiterating his long-held position on leadership ethics, Obi added, “To occupy an office and be referred to as His Excellency, Distinguished or Honourable, how we get to such an office and our character and behaviour while holding it or out of it should reflect such exemplary titles in all ramifications.”
He concluded by reaffirming his optimism in the country’s potential for renewal, declaring, “A New Nigeria is POssible.”