In a time when arrogance often parades as power and silence is mistaken for respect, a young military officer has reminded us what true courage looks like — calm, disciplined, and rooted in principle. I salute this brilliant officer who stood his ground and refused to be intimidated by my dear friend and big brother, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
That singular act — standing firm without violence or disrespect — is the spirit every Nigerian should embody. Courage without arrogance. Confidence without chaos. Truth without theatrics. Sometimes, you must look power in the eye, without blinking, and speak the undiluted truth.
However, courage must walk hand in hand with accountability. The officer’s bravery does not place him above scrutiny. Perverting the course of justice remains a crime, no matter who commits it. The Minister went there as the FCT Minister — to inspect, to act within the powers of his office. Land grabbing, under any guise, must never be tolerated. And if any officer of the armed forces is found meddling in land matters, the Chief of Defence Staff must be called to order. Our National Security Adviser must ensure that professionalism, not emotion, guides every action.
But Oga Wike, with all due respect, your words were unbecoming. Leadership demands restraint. What has your personal history or university background got to do with the issue? You cannot tell a disciplined officer to shut up and expect silence in return. Respect begets respect. When authority descends into abuse, courage becomes a necessary act of defense.
I have experienced such power plays myself. Not long ago, a senior police chief tried to intimidate me over the phone — an abuse of uniform and position. I listened, then firmly reminded him of his duty as an officer of the law. No shouting, no threats — just facts. His ego deflated, and the call ended. The record remains, and justice will take its course. That is how to handle abuse of power: expose it, document it, and seek lawful redress.
Let this moment be a national mirror. Courage is not rebellion; it is moral clarity in the face of intimidation. Respect for office is not silence in the presence of wrongdoing. And power, no matter how high, is not a license to insult or oppress.
We must raise a generation that speaks truth to power — fearlessly, respectfully, and lawfully. A nation where accountability sits beside authority, and where dignity is not traded for fear.
To the young officer, I say: you have taught Nigeria a lesson in composure and principle. To leaders at every level, remember — humility is the true mark of strength.
Let us speak up for those who cannot speak. Let us stand for justice, professionalism, and respect for one another. That, indeed, is how we build a nation worth defending.
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