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Wike Confrontation: We’ll protect Officers performing lawful duties, says Defense Minister Badaru
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has praised Lieutenant Yerima, the naval officer involved in a confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over a disputed plot of land in Abuja.
The land in question is reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo.
Speaking at a press briefing on the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration held on Wednesday at the National Defence College, Abuja, Minister Badaru reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding military personnel performing 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,” Badaru stated.
His comments come amid public debate following a viral video showing Wike in a heated argument with a naval officer at a construction site in Gaduwa District, Abuja.
In the footage, Wike accused the officer of obstructing his access to the site and carrying out illegal construction activities without official approval, stressing that no one, regardless of status, is above the law.
The officer, however, maintained that he was acting under orders from his superiors, resulting in a tense standoff that has continued to stir reactions across the country.

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