By Yahaya Balogun
Nyesom Wike: (unruly to a Nigerian soldier) “You’re a fool!”
Nigerian Soldier: (calmly replies) “I am not a fool, sir!”
Nyesom Wike: (agitated) “You must kill someone.”
Nigerian Soldier: (calmly and orderly) “We won’t kill anyone. I am obeying orders, sir.”
This writer: “Nyesom Wike has literally climbed with indiscipline to the leaf top.” (Nyesom Wike tí gun igi dé orí èwe). He must be reprimanded.
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria and some of his entourage have reached an unprecedented level of public indiscipline! The military ranks among the most esteemed professions globally. These dedicated individuals voluntarily put their lives on the line, safeguarding their nation from both internal and external threats, fostering discipline while reshaping undisciplined mindsets.
For this unfortunate incident in Nigeria to have coincided with the Veterans Day in the United States disheartened me. Our brave servicemen and women uphold the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In the United States, the U.S. Army enjoys great respect and is held in the highest regard in both the private and public sectors. Nigeria should not be an exception.
I experienced a troubling yet mild dream about President Tinubu last night, only to awaken to a regrettable national incident caused by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. A true professional would retain composure and order in any situation. Regardless of the circumstances that led to this display of arrogance and unprofessionalism, a Minister of the Federal Republic should conduct themselves with dignity and honor.
Some ethnic bigots are shamefully injecting politics and bigotry into this national discourse, and this is a disgrace that deserves condemnation from all sides and citizens. What has happened to our collective understanding? Nyesom Wike’s public emotional shortcomings have led to his disgrace and tarnished the reputation of his office. He must either resign or be dismissed by President Tinubu before further scrutiny and outrage falls upon PBAT’s cabinet.
Meanwhile, such emotional arrogance and unprofessional behavior cannot coexist with his role in the Federal Executive Council. Where is his emotional intelligence, maturity, and the dignity expected from his position? It appears he is under some influence. It is possible to work hard and still lack the emotional acumen necessary for public office.
These are extraordinary times for our country. Wike should not be above accountability. His public outburst does not serve President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; rather, it burdens or encumbers a government striving to restore order in a troubled Nigeria. The professional soldier involved in this national disappointment has maintained his courage, integrity, and professionalism, demonstrating what it means to serve honorably and assertively. Nyesom Wike’s position is a public trust. He must be cautioned or advised to resign immediately or face removal from office.
Lastly, where is the rule of law and orderliness on the part of the Minister and his entourage? If a group of soldiers carries out orders that are contrary to established law, why can’t Wike go to court to stop them instead of creating this public and international embarrassment? These are questions we must ask ourselves. What is wrong is wrong. This small incident can consume everyone if it was not managed professionally by the military officers involved. You know we have been there before.
Mr. Nyesom Wike is becoming too offensively bossy and high-handed. Some of us appreciate the good work he is doing in Abuja, but he plays too much with his overzealous behavior. He should tread softly. Mr. President has too much on his hands to deal with unnecessary confrontations from any quarters. Mr. Nyesom Wike goofed!
We will continue to cry out for a resurgence of responsible leaders in our beloved country—Nigeria. Mr. Nyesom Wike should be reprimanded for his uncouth language and lack of self-control; a non-negotiable instrument for correcting public officials whose services are sacrosanct to the people!
*Yahaya Balogun, Arizona, USA
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