‘I Represent the President’ – Wike Explains What He Expected the Officer to Do During Their Encounter

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has provided a clear explanation of what he believed Lt. A.M. Yarima should have done during their widely discussed encounter earlier this week.

Wike addressed the issue on Thursday during a media briefing held immediately after the FCT Executive Committee meeting, where he clarified his expectations and expressed disappointment over how the situation unfolded.

According to Wike, his primary concern was proper protocol and respect for constituted authority, especially in situations involving top government officials. The minister emphasized that whenever security officers interact with senior government representatives, they are expected to follow established guidelines to maintain order and professionalism.

He noted that he does not seek preferential treatment, but he insisted that protocol must be respected, particularly when a minister engages with officers who are required to uphold federal procedures. Wike stressed that his position as a minister means he represents the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and this should guide how officers handle interactions involving him.

Wike explained that the officer involved in the encounter should have acted with restraint, courtesy, and respect, following the same standards applied when dealing with high-ranking officials nationwide. He added that such situations demand maturity, calmness, and adherence to the chain of command.

During the briefing, Wike reiterated that he values the Nigerian Armed Forces and the security agencies that maintain order in the FCT. However, he maintained that protocols exist to prevent unnecessary tension and ensure harmony between the military and civilian authorities.

He emphasized that resolving such matters requires dialogue and a commitment to professional conduct, noting that the federal government expects its representatives and officers to act in alignment with the nation’s governance structure.

Wike concluded by stating that the issue has been noted and addressed through the appropriate channels, assuring residents of the FCT that his administration remains focused on delivering development, security, and infrastructure improvements across the territory.