Nigeria, Nov. 14 -- The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended himself following an altercation he had with a naval officer, Ahmad Yarima, who led a team of soldiers to prevent access to a disputed land belonging to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Zubairu Gambo.

Addressing journalists before the FCT Executive Council meeting on Thursday, Mr Wike said he respects institutions and had no problem with the military, but rather a private individual.

He faulted the use of soldiers by the former naval boss to guard the disputed land and explained that he had to visit the site because he could not sit in his office while government officials including directors were allegedly being assaulted.

"How can I sit as a mi...