The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered an immediate ban on the use of mobile phones by staff of the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) and the Department of Land Administration following the circulation of a viral video showing him in a heated altercation with a Naval officer at a disputed land site in Abuja.
According to an internal memo signed by Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Head of AGIS, the directive affects all officers on Salary Grade Level (SGL) 14 and below, who are henceforth prohibited from bringing or using mobile phones within office premises.
The circular, dated Wednesday, November 12, 2025, is believed to be a reaction to a viral video showing the minister’s confrontation with a Naval officer over an alleged encroachment on FCTA land. The video, widely shared among AGIS staff through WhatsApp groups, reportedly angered the minister.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among staff and the wider public, with some describing it as “punitive and draconian”, while others argue it reflects the minister’s effort to protect sensitive government data and preserve order within the agency.
So far, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has not issued an official public statement explaining the rationale behind the directive or confirming how it will be enforced.
Labour observers and transparency advocates warn that the ban could infringe on workers’ rights and hamper effective communication within departments, especially in a digital-driven work environment like AGIS.
Meanwhile, the viral video continues to trend on social media, fueling debates over leadership style, professionalism, and accountability within the FCT Administration.
