The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has praised Lieutenant Yerima, the naval officer involved in a recent confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, regarding a disputed parcel of land in Abuja.
The property in question is reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo.
Speaking at a ministerial press briefing on Wednesday at the National Defence College, Abuja, ahead of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration, Minister Badaru reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting military personnel while performing their lawful duties.
“At the Ministry and across the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers performing their duties lawfully,” Badaru said. “Lieutenant Yerima acted commendably, and we will ensure his safety. We are thoroughly reviewing this matter, and I assure you that any officer carrying out legitimate duties will receive full protection.”
The Defence Minister’s remarks come amid widespread public debate following the circulation of a viral video showing Wike in a heated exchange with the naval officer at a construction site in Gaduwa District, Abuja.
In the footage, the FCT Minister accused the officer of unlawfully blocking access to the property, stressing that no one, regardless of position or uniform, is above the law. Lieutenant Yerima, however, maintained that he was acting under orders from his superiors, resulting in a standoff that has since drawn significant public attention.
Minister Badaru’s comments signal the Defence Ministry’s intention to uphold the welfare and authority of military officers while ensuring that inter-agency relations are guided by law and mutual respect.
