FCT Minister Wike Bans Use of Mobile Phones by AGIS and Land Administration Staff After Viral Altercation Video.

Abuja — Inko Brightstar of RealNaijaGist News Reporters gathered that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a directive prohibiting the use of mobile phones by staff of the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) and the Department of Land Administration during office hours.rnrnThe new policy reportedly came into effect shortly after a viral video surfaced on social media showing the minister in a heated altercation with a naval officer within the Federal Capital Territory. The video, which quickly spread across various platforms, attracted widespread criticism from citizens who accused the minister of exhibiting aggressive conduct unbecoming of a public office holder.rnrnAccording to sources within the FCT Administration, the ban on mobile phones is being justified internally as a measure to “enhance productivity and prevent distractions” among workers. However, several insiders believe the real motive behind the policy is to prevent staff and aides from recording the minister or leaking sensitive materials that could further damage the administration’s image.rnrnA senior staff member of AGIS, who spoke to RealNaijaGist News Reporters on the condition of anonymity, expressed concern over the decision, describing it as “reactionary and unnecessary.” The source said, “Most of us use our phones for official communication and verification of property records. Completely banning phones will only create inefficiency. It’s obvious this decision was triggered by that viral video.”rnrnPublic analysts have also weighed in on the development, arguing that the move raises questions about transparency and accountability within the FCT Administration. Some observers insist that rather than imposing restrictive measures on staff, the minister should address the underlying issues of workplace tension and leadership style that have repeatedly drawn controversy since his appointment.rnrnWike, a former governor of Rivers State, has been no stranger to public confrontations and bold political statements. His recent clash with the naval officer — believed to have stemmed from a right-of-way misunderstanding — reignited debate over his approach to governance and interpersonal engagement in public service.rnrnMeanwhile, calls for official clarification have been directed to the FCT Administration’s Public Relations Unit, but no formal response had been issued at the time of filing this report.rnrnAs reactions continue to trail both the viral video and the subsequent phone ban, many Nigerians are watching closely to see whether this development marks a one-time disciplinary action or signals a broader effort to tighten media and staff control within the Federal Capital Territory.