Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle has defended a naval officer involved in a clash with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed property. Matawalle criticized Wike's approach to the young officer and claimed he ignored advice from service chiefs. The incident has drawn calls for respect toward armed forces personnel.
The confrontation between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and Lieutenant Yerima, a naval officer, stemmed from a disputed property in Abuja. According to reports, Wike accused the officer of carrying out an illegal order, a claim that drew sharp rebuttals from military figures.
Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence and former Zamfara governor, defended the officer, stating that Wike 'shouldn’t have approached young officer the way he did.' Matawalle further alleged that Wike ignored counsel from service chiefs regarding the disputed property. This defense came amid escalating tensions, with Wike blasting former Army Chief Tukur Buratai and insisting Lt. Yerima acted unlawfully.
Senate President Ahmad Lawan weighed in, urging Nigerians to 'respect armed forces personnel irrespective of status.' The incident highlights ongoing frictions between civilian authorities and the military over land disputes in the capital.
No resolution has been reported, but the exchanges underscore the need for dialogue between government officials and security personnel to prevent further escalation.
