National Security At Risk: Buratai Warns As Wike Faces Backlash Over Clash with Soldier

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (rtd), has condemned the recent altercation involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, and a uniformed officer of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing it as a “clear threat to national security.”

Buratai called for immediate disciplinary action and a public apology from the minister, warning that the incident “undermines the authority of the Commander-in-Chief and the integrity of the Armed Forces.”

Buratai expressed deep concern over what he termed as “profound indiscipline” exhibited by the FCT Minister. According to him, Wike’s public verbal assault on a military officer in uniform “transcends mere misconduct” and strikes at the core of Nigeria’s command and control structure.

“A minister’s verbal assault on a military officer in uniform is an act of profound indiscipline that strikes at the very core of our nation’s command and control structure,” Buratai stated.

“It deliberately undermines the chain of command, disrespects the authority of the Commander-in-Chief, and grievously wounds the morale of every individual who serves under the Nigerian flag.”

He stressed that such actions erode the foundation of discipline upon which Nigeria’s national security apparatus is built, warning that the incident should not be dismissed as political theatre. “This is a reckless endangerment of national order,” he added, noting that Wike’s conduct could be interpreted as undermining federal authority.

Buratai further urged the FCT Minister to issue an immediate and unequivocal public apology to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to the Nigerian military institution, and to the specific officer involved in the incident.

“It is time for decisive action, not politics of military bashing. The integrity of our Armed Forces demands nothing less,” Buratai asserted.

The statement has since sparked nationwide debate, with observers divided over the implications of the confrontation.

While some political analysts describe Buratai’s warning as a necessary defense of military integrity, others argue it reflects growing tensions between civilian authorities and the military establishment.

The viral video incident continues to spread while many Nigerians applauded the officer for his composure and strength of character. Others faulted Wike for what they viewed as undignified conduct, especially given his ministerial position.