Veterans ask Public Office Holders to Respect Armed Forces’ Dignity
The Coalition of Military Veterans of Nigeria has appealed to public officials across all levels of government to uphold and protect the dignity of the nation’s Armed Forces, following a recent exchange between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a serving Navy lieutenant. Addressing journalists in Kaduna, retired Colonel Ibrahim Yusuf Mansur said the encounter “served […]
The scene of theface-off between the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and a military officer
The Coalition of Military Veterans of Nigeria has appealed to public officials across all levels of government to uphold and protect the dignity of the nation’s Armed Forces, following a recent exchange between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a serving Navy lieutenant.
Addressing journalists in Kaduna, retired Colonel Ibrahim Yusuf Mansur said the encounter “served as a reminder of the need for public office holders to show utmost respect to uniformed personnel carrying out legitimate duties.”
According to him, the group was “taken aback” by the minister’s remarks to the officer, stressing that the dignity of the Armed Forces must remain non-negotiable.
He noted that the young naval officer was performing his official assignment and did not deserve public reprimand.
“Why should a law enforcement officer who represents the President and the sovereignty of the Nigerian state be so embarrassed?” he asked. “Such an action diminishes the authority of the Republic.”
The veterans emphasized that public officials must understand the weight of the military uniform and the constitutional authority it carries.
“Public office holders are appointed to project the good image of the administration, not to harass anyone because they hold a temporary position.”
They urged that any concerns involving the conduct of military personnel should be handled through appropriate channels.
The veterans encouraged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take any steps necessary to reinforce respect among government institutions.
“For national security and the integrity of this administration, such incidents should not be allowed to repeat themselves,” the group noted.
The Veterans Coalition reaffirmed their loyalty to President Tinubu and the democratic order, saying:
“Nigerian Military Veterans and our families are 100% loyal and will do everything to protect his integrity and our nascent democracy.”
They also commended the Defence Minister, Minister of State for Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff and other service chiefs for their professionalism in addressing public concerns about the incident.