Military Veterans Caution Wike Over Clash With Naval Officer

The Coalition of Military Veterans has cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his clash with a naval officer, Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, in Abuja. The group warned that any attempt to punish the officer would be met with strong resistance, saying he was only doing his job.

The clash happened on Tuesday at Gaduwa District during a disagreement over a piece of land said to belong to a former Chief of Naval Staff. A video of the incident showed Wike arguing with military personnel who stopped him from entering the site. The argument got tense when Wike told Yerima to “shut up,” and the officer replied, “I will not shut up.”

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, the veterans condemned Wike’s action, calling it shameful and unfit for a public official. They said the minister should have discussed the issue privately with naval authorities instead of insulting a junior officer in public.

The group also accused Wike of previously harassing security officers and urged President Bola Tinubu to call him to order. They said his behaviour disrespects the military and weakens discipline in public service.