Key Points

• General Irabor emphasized the uniform represents state authority, not the individual wearing it.
• Minister Matawalle confirmed Lieutenant Yerima followed orders and acted professionally.
• Wike maintained his actions were lawful and reaffirmed respect for the military.

The confrontation between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and a naval officer in Abuja has drawn attention from retired and current defence officials.

Former Chief of Defence Staff General Lucky Irabor and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle said disrespect toward uniformed personnel challenges the authority of the Nigerian state.

Irabor described the incident as unnecessary and avoidable. He said the uniform represents the power, dignity, and sovereignty of the nation.

“The uniform is not about who is wearing it. It represents the authority of the state. Insulting a soldier is insulting the state itself,” he said at the 21st All Nigeria Editors’ Conference in Abuja.

Retired general calls for restraint

Irabor, who led the Nigerian Armed Forces from 2021 to 2023, said public reactions to Wike’s encounter were largely misguided. He reminded citizens that the military follows strict codes of conduct.

“Even as a general, I cannot slap a soldier. There are mechanisms for addressing misconduct. That is what distinguishes a state governed by law from a jungle,” he said.

He added that every offence should be judged by the act and the intent. While the FCT minister oversees land matters, Irabor said the controversy centers on respect for state authority as represented by uniformed officers.

Officer acted lawfully, says Minister of State

Matawalle dismissed any reason to discipline Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima, the naval officer involved.

Speaking to DCL Hausa, he said the incident should have been resolved through formal channels rather than a public confrontation.

He noted that Yerima followed orders and behaved professionally. “The officer acted under orders and kept his composure. His actions were lawful and followed military training,” Matawalle said.

He added that disrespecting personnel in uniform indirectly challenges the authority of the Commander-in-Chief.

Wike defends his actions

Wike denied having a personal feud with the military. He told journalists that the FCT Administration would not allow intimidation or obstruction of lawful duties. “You cannot weaken government.

Everyone must obey the law, irrespective of who is involved,” he said. Wike also said social media exaggerated the incident and reaffirmed his respect for the military.

Atiku denies SUV gift

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar denied claims that he gifted a Toyota SUV to Lieutenant Yerima. Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, called the reports on social media false and urged the public to ignore them.