Wike’s approach was totally wrong. His conduct was bereft of the aura of a minister, characteristically unfortunately.
On the other hand, allowing himself to be dragged into a public altercation with a government minister on duty was less than expected conduct of a gentleman officer. He should have delivered his position politely but firmly and ignored any provocation from Wike or his staff. Military officers are better trained in emotion control and language use especially when talking to their seniors. Wike, in today’s Nigeria, is by far the officer’s senior. Wike, in my mind, is old enough to be the officer’s father. As a well brought up African child, on the basis of age disparity alone, he should have conducted himself better in front of such a man even if he wasn’t a minister. The officer’s life was not under threat. He did not need impolite or unnecessary exchange to prove his strength.

The bigger problem!
For a former CNS to send military personnel to his private, undeveloped property for the sole purpose of preventing govt officials from carrying out their legitimate duties says a lot about our system: system in operation vs what it is supposed to be. Why would such a highly placed citizen employ such a method to secure/prevent scrutiny of his property? Did he think of the long-term consequences of his action? If he was sure he had legitimate right to the property, he should have acted in a more civilized manner: get across to the right authority, possibly through his lawyers. Maybe he had sensed that his position was weak legally and resorted to intimidation. This unfortunate method will not take him far.

Both parties are guilty in allowing this shameful incident to occur.

Do not forget that Wike is a govt minister appointed by the C-in-C. The action of the former CNS amounts to a challenge to the President’s authority. He will definitely be called to order.

Judging from what I have seen on social media, many Nigerians appear to be celebrating the young officer’s performance during the encounter. For me, his poor performance is pretty obvious. Maybe many Nigerians (on social media) are happy that someone has finally stood up to the pugnacious Wike notwithstanding the mistakes made in the process. By now many would have been asking if Wike is invincible.

As we may see, the political BAT may not want heads to roll but will find a way to quietly resolve the matter.

We have enough problems in this country begging for attention. We should not allow unnecessary ones to germinate