CISLAC Calls for Discipline Following Wike’s Altercation with Military Officer

From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged public officials to exhibit greater restraint, discipline, and respect in their conduct. The organization warned that acts of indiscipline and arrogance by government representatives tarnish Nigeria’s global image and erode public confidence in governance.

In a statement released on Wednesday, and made available to the media in kaduna signed by its Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), who also leads Transparency International (TI) Nigeria, CISLAC condemned the recent altercation between Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and a military officer, deeming the incident “reckless, disrespectful, and unbecoming of a public official.”

“Public officials are expected to be civil and dignified in their duties and must adhere to the code of conduct governing public office,” Rafsanjani stated. “It is unacceptable for public officials to confront security personnel, as it sends a negative message about our nation. They should serve as role models, not symbols of impunity.”

CISLAC noted that the confrontation, which sparked public outrage, reflected a “pattern of recklessness and poor emotional control” on Wike’s part, emphasizing that governance requires humility and respect for institutional boundaries.

The organization recalled that over 50 Nigerian civil society groups had previously called for an investigation into Wike regarding allegations of asset concealment and illicit enrichment, warning that such controversies undermine Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.

“The behavior and conduct exhibited by the FCT Minister highlight a concerning lack of discipline,” the statement said. “To ridicule an essential institution like the Armed Forces, particularly when Nigeria faces numerous security threats, is both dangerous and unacceptable.”

CISLAC commended the military officer involved for maintaining professionalism despite the provocation, stating that his composure “exemplifies the discipline and integrity that define the Nigerian Armed Forces.”

Rafsanjani urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action, warning that “individuals who lack humility and respect for institutional order should not hold public office.”

He also called on the FCT Minister to publicly apologize to the officer, the Armed Forces, and the President, stressing that “national security must always take precedence.”

CISLAC concluded by advocating for leadership grounded in emotional intelligence and accountability, stating, “It is time for leadership that strengthens, rather than weakens, public trust in institutions. The integrity of our Armed Forces and Nigeria’s international reputation demand nothing less.”