Navy Officer Involved in Clash with FCT Minister Wike, Reportedly Escape Assassination Attempt

A Nigerian Navy officer, Lt. A. M. Yerima, who recently drew national attention following a confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reportedly survived an alleged assassination attempt.

According to military sources cited by Vanguard, the incident occurred on Sunday evening when Lt. Yerima was trailed by unidentified men dressed in black and travelling in two unmarked Hilux vans without number plates. The vehicles allegedly followed him from the NIPCO Filling Station off the Line Expressway to Gado Nasco Way.

Sensing imminent danger, the officer reportedly executed a “strategic manoeuvre” to evade the suspected assailants at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Sources confirmed that the matter is currently under investigation and is being treated with “the seriousness it deserves.” Further details were withheld to avoid compromising ongoing inquiries.

This development comes only days after Lt. Yerima was involved in a widely publicized confrontation with FCT Minister Wike over a disputed land parcel in the Gaduwa District. The incident, captured on video, went viral and triggered nationwide debate, leading the Presidency to suspend the demolition exercise at the centre of the dispute.

Minister Wike faced widespread criticism for verbally berating the naval officer during the altercation. Military veterans across the country condemned the Minister’s behaviour and dismissed calls for disciplinary action against Lt. Yerima.

Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, spokesperson for the Coalition of Retired Veterans, warned that ex-service members would “occupy the office and residence of the FCT Minister” if any sanctions were imposed.
“How can a public office holder call an officer ‘a fool’ on camera?” he queried, stressing that such conduct disrespects national institutions and diminishes the integrity of public office.

Meanwhile, Minister of Defence Mohammad Badaru Abubakar has assured that no military officer who acted within the law would face punishment over the incident.
“We will always protect officers and our armed forces personnel on lawful duty,” he stated during a briefing ahead of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
“Any officer on lawful duty will be protected if he is carrying out his responsibilities properly and within the law.”

Veterans had earlier vowed to mobilise nationwide should Lt. Yerima face any form of disciplinary action.