Veteran journalist and broadcaster Reuben Abati has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and rein in Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, following a widely circulated video showing Wike in a heated exce with naval officer Lt. A.M. Yerima.
The confrontation took place on November 12 at a contested property in Abuja’s Gaduwa district, reportedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo. Military personnel stationed at the site blocked Wike and his team from accessing the land, which the FCT Administration claims was being illegally repurposed. The standoff quickly escalated, drawing national attention.
During a segment on his Morning Show, Abati criticized Wike’s conduct, likening him to an “Omo Onile” a colloquial Yoruba term for someone who acts like a land baron. He accused the minister of overstepping his authority and embarrassing the presidency through his aggressive approach.
Abati went further, describing Wike as a disruptive force within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), acting as a political enforcer for the ruling APC. He questioned Wike’s repeated claims of respecting the rule of law, arguing that his actions, particularly the demolition of properties under the guise of restoring Abuja’s master plan suggest otherwise.
“There are multiple court rulings on the Abuja master plan,” Abati said. “Yet the minister selectively chooses which ones to honor. That’s not how the rule of law works.”
He also condemned Wike’s confrontation with the military, calling it a breach of decorum and a public embarrassment for President Tinubu. “This behavior is unacceptable from a public official,” Abati stated. “The president must step in and remind his appointees that there are standards of conduct they must uphold.”
Abati concluded by urging the president to take decisive action, emphasizing that leadership demands accountability and respect for legal processes.
Why should Tinubu intervene? Let them settle it themselves. Drama alert!
Tinubu has a stake in the matter. His intervention could bring resolution. Drama is inevitable.
Why should Tinubu get involved? Let them handle it themselves! 🤷♂️
Maybe they should just settle it with a dance battle instead 🕺💃
I think Tinubu should just challenge Wike to a dance-off instead. 🕺🏽
Tinubu and Wike should just settle this with a dance-off. Problem solved! 🕺🏽💃🏽
I dont see why Tinubu should get involved. Let them handle it themselves.
I dont see the big deal. Let them duke it out, popcorn ready.
Maybe try showing some empathy instead of being indifferent to conflict. Compassion goes a long way.
I think its ridiculous to expect Tinubu to intervene in a land dispute between Wike and Abuja. Let them sort it out themselves.
I disagree, Tinubu shouldnt intervene in Wikes land dispute. Let them handle it themselves. Its their issue, not his.
Why should Tinubu get involved in a land dispute between Wike and Abuja? Seems like unnecessary drama.
I think its interesting how this broadcaster is trying to mediate between Tinubu and Wike. Do you think its necessary?
Why should Tinubu intervene in a land dispute involving Wike? Let them sort it out themselves!
I think its ridiculous to involve Tinubu in this land dispute. Let Wike and the authorities handle it. Tinubu has enough on his plate.
Is it really necessary for Tinubu to intervene in a land dispute between Wike and Abuja? Let them sort it out themselves.
Why does Tinubu need to step in? Let them sort it out themselves. Too much drama. Focus on real issues.
Why should Tinubu have to step in? Let Wike and the parties involved handle it themselves. Too much interference breeds dependency.
I think its hypocritical for a broadcaster to call out Tinubu when there are bigger issues to address. Priorities, people!