Wike vs. Navy: Defence Minister Takes Stand, Sends Cryptic Message To Public

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has confirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to protecting military personnel engaged in lawful duties throughout the nation.

This statement was made during a ministerial press briefing at the National Defence College in Abuja on Wednesday, in anticipation of the upcoming 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration.

Badaru’s remarks follow an incident involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer, Lieutenant A. M. Yerima, which occurred on Tuesday.

The altercation centered around a contentious parcel of land in Abuja, reportedly associated with former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo.

In response to inquiries regarding the confrontation, Badaru mentioned that the Ministry of Defence is currently reviewing the situation.

He reinforced the notion that the armed forces would not forsake any officer who operates within the boundaries of lawful authority.

Badaru said, “Well, at the Ministry, and indeed the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers on lawful duty.

“We are looking into this issue, and we assure that any officer on lawful duty will be protected highly. We will not allow anything to happen to him so far he is doing his job, and he’s doing his job greatly well.”

A viral video has sparked public outrage following a confrontation between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Wike, and a naval officer at a construction site in Gaduwa District, Abuja.

In the footage, Wike accuses the officer of unlawfully obstructing his access to the property, emphasizing that no individual, regardless of their status, is above the law.

The naval officer, on the other hand, defended his actions by stating that he was operating under superior orders. This exchange has led to a split in public opinion regarding the incident.