FCT Minister Wike Imposes Mobile Phone Ban on AGIS Staff After Viral Altercation Video
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reportedly banned the use of mobile phones by staff of the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) after a viral video captured his heated exchange with a naval officer circulated widely online.
According to credible reports, the new directive was issued after the minister expressed displeasure over the manner in which the video — showing his confrontation — found its way to social media. The footage, which quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, drew massive public attention and sparked mixed reactions from Nigerians.
The Incident: What Happened in the Viral Video
The now-viral video clip showed Minister Wike engaged in a verbal altercation with a naval officer near a checkpoint within the Federal Capital Territory. The officer, who was reportedly on official duty, appeared to resist the minister’s motorcade from passing through a restricted lane.
In the footage, Wike could be seen visibly frustrated, questioning the officer’s authority and insisting that his convoy be allowed to pass. The exchange, which lasted less than a minute, was captured by bystanders and AGIS staff nearby — one of whom allegedly shared the clip online.
Within hours, the video spread across social media platforms, sparking debates about public conduct, official authority, and the limits of security personnel’s powers.
Wike’s Reaction: “Discipline and Decorum Must Be Restored
Reacting swiftly to the viral clip, Minister Wike expressed strong displeasure over the unauthorized recording, describing it as a breach of workplace discipline and a violation of government confidentiality protocols.
In a directive to AGIS management, he reportedly ordered an immediate ban on the use of mobile phones during working hours within the agency’s premises.
"There must be discipline in the system. People cannot just record government officials at will while on duty. This is not a social media arena — it is a government office,” Wike reportedly said during a meeting with top FCT officials."
Sources within the FCT Administration (FCTA) confirmed that staff were instructed to surrender their phones or keep them off while at work to avoid distractions and prevent further leaks of sensitive materials.
AGIS Management Confirms the Directive
An internal memo circulating online reportedly reads:
“All staff are hereby directed to desist from using mobile phones during office hours. This directive takes effect immediately and applies to all departments within AGIS.”
The memo also warned that any employee caught violating the order could face disciplinary action.
Public Reactions: Divided Opinions
The decision has triggered mixed responses among Nigerians. While some praised Wike’s move as a necessary step to protect government processes from leaks and distractions, others criticized it as too extreme, arguing that employees should not be punished for an incident involving public accountability.
Social media commentators were quick to share their opinions:
Wike has a point — sensitive offices like AGIS should have stricter controls on recording and phone use,” one user posted on X.
Another argued, “Banning phones entirely is excessive. Transparency in governance should not be mistaken for insubordination.”
Despite the controversy, many observers noted that Wike’s leadership style has always been firm and decisive, a trait consistent with his past tenure as governor of Rivers State.
Analysts Weigh In on Wike’s Leadership Approach
Political analysts believe that this latest development reflects Wike’s no-nonsense administrative philosophy. According to governance expert Dr. Emmanuel Adamu, the minister’s approach, though sometimes perceived as heavy-handed, often aims to instill discipline and efficiency within public institutions.
“Wike operates with a results-driven mindset. He expects order, hierarchy, and loyalty within the system. This phone ban, though controversial, aligns with his broader governance pattern,” Adamu noted.
Others, however, warn that policies like this could discourage openness in the public sector and make government offices appear less transparent.
Broader Implications for FCT Public Service
The new phone restriction raises questions about how far workplace surveillance and discipline should go in public institutions. Some agencies have previously implemented similar rules, particularly in sectors involving confidential documents, yet complete bans are rare.
Observers say the move could set a precedent for other government bodies seeking to regulate employee phone use, especially in the digital age when unauthorized recordings can quickly escalate into viral controversies.
Meanwhile, AGIS staff are reportedly adjusting to the new policy, though some have expressed concerns about communication challenges during emergencies.
The Wike mobile phone ban at AGIS has once again placed the FCT Minister in the spotlight, showcasing his determination to enforce discipline while reigniting debates about privacy and transparency in public service.
Whether this move strengthens administrative control or sparks further criticism remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear — Wike’s leadership style continues to draw both praise and controversy, reinforcing his image as one of Nigeria’s most assertive and uncompromising political figures.
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