Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Bello Matawalle, has criticised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for personally confronting naval officer Lt-Commander Yerima at a disputed land site in Abuja, despite warnings from senior military leadership that the matter should be handled through proper channels.
Matawalle described the incident as “unfortunate” and said the naval officer was merely acting on orders and conducting himself appropriately.
He noted that Wike had contacted both the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, and was advised to wait for a formal investigation.
According to the minister, the officer followed lawful orders, did not breach any military regulation, and treated the situation with due respect.
Matawalle added that Wike’s direct engagement with the officer undermined military hierarchy and the dignity of the uniformed services.
The Minister emphasised the need for government officials to respect the chain of command and avoid direct confrontations with military personnel, especially in uniform.
He reiterated that the officer should not face punishment and that the land dispute will be addressed through formal investigation by the Navy.
Matawalle concluded that the Ministry of Defence has not yet received an official complaint from Wike.
He said he reached out to the FCT Minister after the incident went viral, advising that Wike should have consulted the Defence Ministry rather than confronting the officers in person.