Buratai Demands Apology from Wike Over Soldier Clash

Former Army Chief says Wike’s outburst “undermines national security, chain of command, and respect for the Presidency”

November 12, 2025 — Abuja, Nigeria.

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to publicly apologize to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the uniformed soldier allegedly involved in a recent confrontation in Abuja.

In a statement released via his verified Facebook page, Buratai described Wike’s remarks and actions against the soldier as “a direct affront to discipline, authority, and national security.”

He said:

> “Insulting a uniformed soldier in public is a serious act of indiscipline that undermines the chain of command, weakens the authority of the Commander-in-Chief, and dampens the morale of security personnel.”

Buratai further emphasized that the incident should not be viewed as a mere political disagreement but as a breach of respect for Nigeria’s military institutions.

> “Wike must render an unreserved apology to President Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the soldier involved. The honour and discipline of our Armed Forces must be protected above all else,” he added.

As of the time of this report, Wike’s media team has yet to issue any official response to Buratai’s statement.