FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has broken his silence on the viral confrontation with naval officer Lt. Ahmad Yerima that has dominated Nigerian social media for days.
The heated exchange happened during a property enforcement operation in Abuja, where Lt. Yerima allegedly prevented Wike and his team from accessing a disputed site.
A video that went viral appeared to show the minister calling the officer a “fool,” triggering widespread backlash and accusations that he disrespected the military.
Now, Wike is setting the record straight.
Speaking publicly for the first time about the incident, Wike pushed back hard against claims he disrespected the armed forces.
“Some said I told the boy, ‘you’re a fool.’ What I meant is this: you cannot be carrying out an illegal order.
I didn’t say the military is a fool; I would never say that,” he explained. “I know the role they play in this country and what they pass through fighting terrorists.”
The minister pointed to his track record of supporting Nigeria’s security forces, highlighting the resources he’s provided since becoming FCT Minister.
“I have always supported security efforts. Go and see what I have provided for them to enable them fight and do their work.”
While defending his respect for the military, Wike didn’t back down from his criticism of Lt. Yerima’s conduct during the encounter.
“If I know all that, why would I call him a fool?” Wike asked. “But what you’re doing is not what you’re taught as an officer. You’re not carrying out the duty expected of you.”
The minister’s comments suggest he believes Lt. Yerima was following orders that shouldn’t have been given in the first place.
