Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has commended Lieutenant Yerima, the naval officer who confronted the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over a disputed parcel of land in Abuja.
The land is reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo.
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Speaking to journalists during a ministerial press briefing on the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration on Wednesday at the National Defence College, Abuja, Minister Badaru affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting members of the Armed Forces while carrying out their lawful duties.
“At the Ministry and across the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers performing their duties lawfully. Lieutenant Yerima has acted commendably, and we will ensure his safety.
“We are thoroughly reviewing this matter, and I assure you that any officer performing legitimate duties will receive full protection,” he stated.
The remarks follow widespread public reaction to a viral video showing the FCT Minister engaged in a tense dispute with a naval officer at a construction site in Gaduwa District, Abuja.
In the footage, Wike accused the officer of illegally preventing his entry to the property, emphasising that no individual, regardless of rank, is above the law.
The officer, meanwhile, insisted he was following orders from his superiors, leading to a confrontation that has since sparked a debate among the public.