Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has condemned the recent altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a Naval officer in Abuja, describing it as a shameful reflection of Nigeria’s deteriorating governance culture and a dangerous signal for the nation’s democracy.
Frank said the incident, where a senior minister publicly berated a uniformed officer during an enforcement exercise, goes beyond poor judgment. He described it as a manifestation of the arrogance and moral decline that he believes define the Tinubu administration.
“This episode represents a deeper rot in our leadership culture, one where power is exercised without restraint, and where political loyalty now outweighs accountability,” Frank said.
Highlighting Wike’s pattern of conduct, Frank noted: “Since assuming office, Wike has carried on as though the FCT were his personal fiefdom. His abrasive style, marked by disregard for court orders and contempt for opposition voices, makes a mockery of public service.”
Frank, who serves as United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, expressed deep concern over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s continued silence, warning that failure to discipline the minister sends a message that some officials are “above the law.”
“President Tinubu’s refusal to publicly caution or reprimand Wike has emboldened impunity and reinforced the perception that loyalty to the President is more important than loyalty to the country,” he said.
He commended the Naval officer’s calm and professional conduct as exemplary, urging the Armed Forces and the public to recognize the officer’s discipline and restraint:
“The Naval officer’s composure in the face of provocation reflects the highest ideals of service, patriotism, and respect for uniform. In any decent society, such conduct would earn commendation, perhaps even national honours.”
Frank also linked the incident to Nigeria’s international image, noting:
“Incidents like this reinforce the perception once voiced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who described Nigeria as a ‘disgraced country.’ While Trump’s rhetoric was harsh, leadership failures like this give weight to that label.”
He warned that unchecked arrogance and impunity threaten Nigeria’s democracy and erode public trust:
“A democracy cannot thrive where arrogance is rewarded and accountability ignored. When ministers act with impunity and the President looks away, it weakens the moral fabric of governance and invites chaos.”
Frank called on President Tinubu to publicly reprimand Wike and reaffirm the administration’s commitment to discipline, humility, and respect for institutions:
“Authority must come with humility; enforcement must come with respect. Leadership is not intimidation. Nigeria stands at a moral crossroads between arrogance and accountability. The President’s silence cannot endure.”