BREAKING: Lieutenant Yerima Survives Alleged Assassination Attempt in Abuja

A Nigerian Navy officer, Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, reportedly survived an attempted attack in Abuja on Sunday evening, intensifying public attention following his recent confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Military insiders disclosed that the incident happened around 6:30 p.m. after the officer noticed unusual surveillance along the Kubwa axis.

Sources claim Lt. Yerima was allegedly trailed by unidentified men dressed in black, riding in two unmarked Hilux vans without number plates. The vehicles reportedly followed him from the NIPCO filling station near the Kubwa Expressway before continuing behind him towards Gado Nasco Way. Upon sensing danger, the officer executed strategic evasive movements, successfully distancing himself from the suspected attackers.

Security authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are treating the matter as highly sensitive. Limited information is being released at this stage to avoid compromising early findings, but insiders describe the pursuit as coordinated and intentional.

This latest development follows the widely publicized clash between Lt. Yerima and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike during a demolition exercise at a disputed land site in Gaduwa District. The confrontation, which went viral, showed the minister making controversial remarks that sparked nationwide reactions and condemnation from serving and retired military personnel.

Veterans under the Coalition of Retired Veterans criticized the minister’s conduct, calling it disrespectful to the armed forces and threatening to mobilize if disciplinary action was taken against Yerima. Their spokesperson, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, insisted that security personnel serve the nation and not individual political office holders.

Minister of Defence Mohammad Badaru has since assured the public that no officer performing lawful duties will be punished over the incident. He emphasized that the government will continue to protect security personnel who carry out their responsibilities professionally and in accordance with the law.

The alleged assassination attempt has heightened concerns over the safety of uniformed officers involved in sensitive national assignments. Many Nigerians online are now calling for a transparent investigation and stronger security protection for officials carrying out lawful operations.