Defence Minister Praises Naval Officer Yerima for Confrontation with Wike, Vows Protection

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has commended Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima for his handling of a recent confrontation with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed parcel of land in Abuja, assuring that the Federal Government will protect the officer.

Speaking at a ministerial press briefing ahead of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration at the National Defence College, Abuja, Badaru lauded Yerima’s composure and professionalism, describing his actions as aligned with military discipline and duty.

The dispute reportedly involves land linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (Rtd.), and became public earlier this week when Wike confronted Yerima, accusing him of “land grabbing,” while the naval officer insisted the property was lawfully acquired. The exchange quickly went viral on social media.

“At the Ministry, and indeed within the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers on lawful duty,” Badaru said. “He has acted correctly, and we will not allow anything to happen to him.”

He added that the Defence Ministry is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident to ensure accountability and fairness, emphasizing that any officer performing legitimate duties will receive full protection.

Badaru’s statement is the first official government reaction to the viral confrontation, which has sparked debate about civil-military relations and ministerial authority in Abuja.

Since taking office, Minister Wike has aggressively pursued the restoration of the Abuja Master Plan, including demolitions of illegal structures and investigations into land allocations. Critics argue his approach has led to tension between the FCT Administration and federal agencies, including the military.

As of press time, neither Wike nor the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has responded to Badaru’s comments.