- Badaru reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding military personnel
- any officer performing legitimate duties will receive full protection
- The officer maintained that he was acting on instructions from his superiors
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has praised Lieutenant Yerima, the naval officer who confronted FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed Abuja property reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that speaking at a press briefing on the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration on Wednesday at the National Defence College, Abuja, Badaru reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding military personnel while they carry out lawful duties.
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“At the Ministry and across the Armed Forces, we will always protect officers performing their duties lawfully. Lieutenant Yerima acted commendably, and we will ensure his safety,” he said. “We are reviewing this matter thoroughly, and any officer performing legitimate duties will receive full protection.”
The comments come amid public attention to a viral video showing Wike and the naval officer in a tense exchange at a construction site in the Gaduwa District.
In the footage, Wike accused the officer of unlawfully blocking his access to the property, stressing that no one is above the law.
The officer maintained that he was acting on instructions from his superiors, leading to the confrontation that has since sparked nationwide debate.
Badaru’s remarks underscore the government’s position on supporting security personnel and ensuring their protection while performing assigned duties, highlighting the delicate balance between law enforcement, civil authority, and military protocol.
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