Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru has commended Lieutenant Yerima, the naval officer involved in a recent dispute with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a contested plot of land in Abuja, reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo.

Speaking at a briefing on the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration at the National Defence College in Abuja on Wednesday, Badaru emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting members of the Armed Forces carrying out their 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. We are thoroughly reviewing this matter, and I assure you that any officer performing legitimate duties will receive full protection,” he said.

The remarks follow a viral video showing a tense confrontation between Wike and Lieutenant Yerima at a construction site in Gaduwa District, Abuja. In the video, Wike accused the officer of unlawfully barring his access to the property, stressing that no one is above the law. The officer, meanwhile, maintained he was acting under orders from his superiors, sparking widespread public debate.