By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned that he may resign from office if President Bola Tinubu fails to guarantee his personal safety amid what he described as rising attacks on him and officials working under his administration.
Speaking during a public engagement, Wike said the situation had become intolerable, alleging that government officials in the FCT were being physically assaulted while carrying out their duties.
“I cannot continue to work in an environment where officials are beaten up. This is unacceptable,” the minister said, adding that his ability to function effectively depended on adequate protection from the federal government.
Wike’s comments come against the backdrop of growing tensions linked to land administration and enforcement actions in the capital. In a recent incident, a junior army officer reportedly prevented the minister from proceeding with plans to seize land said to belong to a senior military officer, a development that has further heightened concerns over authority and security.
The outspoken former Rivers State governor said he would not hesitate to step aside if the president was unable to ensure his safety and that of his team, stressing that public office should not come at the cost of personal security.
The Presidency has not yet responded publicly to Wike’s remarks. However, the incident is likely to intensify debates over security, civil-military relations and the enforcement of government policies in Nigeria’s capital.
Wike has remained one of the most influential and controversial figures in the Tinubu administration, frequently drawing attention for his assertive leadership style and high-profile clashes since assuming office as FCT minister.
