Wike Bans Mobile Phones for AGIS, Land Staff After Viral Video

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered a ban on the use of mobile phones by staff of the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) and the Department of Land Administration. The directive, which takes effect Wednesday, November 12, 2025, applies to officers on Grade Level 14 and below, barring them from entering their offices with phones.

An internal memo signed by AGIS Head, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, confirmed the policy, stating that affected officers will no longer be allowed to bring their devices into the premises. Sources within AGIS revealed that the decision followed Wike’s anger over viral videos showing his altercation with a Naval officer at a disputed property site in Abuja.

“The minister was furious that the footage circulated among staff and saw it as an act of sabotage,” a source said. The move has triggered criticism among workers and civil rights advocates, who view it as an attempt to suppress transparency and expression within the civil service.