Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has backed Lieutenant AM Yerima, the officer involved in a confrontation with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the FCT, over a disputed land in Gaduwa, Abuja.
Badaru made his position known on Wednesday during a ministerial press briefing on the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration at the National Defence College, Abuja.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting members of the Armed Forces carrying out 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,” the minister said.
“We are thoroughly reviewing this matter, and I assure you that any officer performing legitimate duties will receive full protection,” he added.
A viral video of the heated exchange between Wike and Yerima sparked mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians praising the soldier’s composure and others condemning what they described as an unlawful obstruction of the minister’s duties.
The land is reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo.
With Badaru’s comments, the Defence Ministry has now publicly signaled its support for Lt. Yerima as investigations into the dispute continue.
