The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has publicly defended Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, the naval officer involved in a recent confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over access to a disputed plot of land in Abuja. The land is reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (rtd).
Speaking during a press briefing at the National Defence College on Wednesday, held in preparation for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration, Badaru assured the public that the military would stand firmly behind any officer performing lawful duties. “So we are looking into this issue, and we assure that any officer on lawful duty will be protected highly. So we will not allow anything to happen to him so far he is doing his job, and he is doing his job greatly well,” the minister stated.
The incident, which took place earlier in the week, involved Wike and his entourage attempting to access the land in Gaduwa District, Abuja, where Yerima was reportedly stationed to secure the property. According to eyewitness accounts and video footage circulating online, the naval officer refused to grant access, citing orders and the need to protect the premises. The confrontation escalated when Wike allegedly used harsh language and demanded compliance, prompting Yerima to stand his ground.
Badaru’s remarks have been interpreted as a strong endorsement of Yerima’s conduct, reinforcing the principle that military personnel should not be penalized for upholding lawful orders. “He has done well. We won’t allow anything to happen to him,” Badaru added, signaling institutional support for the officer amid growing public debate.
The Defence Headquarters also posted a cryptic message on its official X account shortly after the incident, stating: “IT IS AN HONOUR TO SERVE IN THE NIGERIAN MILITARY. UNSHAKEN. UNBENT. UNBROKEN.” Though it did not directly mention the altercation, many observers viewed it as a subtle show of solidarity with Yerima.
The clash has sparked broader conversations about the boundaries between civil authority and military operations, with critics questioning whether Wike’s approach undermined the professionalism of the armed forces. Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, weighed in, describing Wike’s actions as a potential threat to national security.
As investigations continue, the Defence Ministry’s stance appears clear: officers acting within the scope of their duties will be protected, and institutional integrity must be preserved. The episode has become a flashpoint for discussions on governance, respect for rule of law, and the role of security agencies in civil matters.
