A heated public debate has erupted on social media following reports that a Nigerian military officer, Lt. A.M. Yerima, allegedly stopped civil servants from carrying out their lawful duties on behalf of the Federal Government.
This confrontation reportedly involved the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore (@YeleSowore) criticised the Nigerian military for what he described as a misuse of national security resources, claiming that officers were being deployed to protect private property for senior officials rather than securing the nation’s borders.
“The military’s primary responsibility is to safeguard the country’s borders, but instead, it is devoting resources to protect a parcel of land for a high-ranking officer, allegedly acting on ‘orders,’” Sowore wrote. He linked the incident to what he called “pervasive self-interest among officials who cater to a privileged few,” adding that even Wike himself, as governor of Rivers State, once obstructed EFCC officers attempting to arrest a corrupt judge.
Sowore’s post drew a flood of reactions from Nigerians, many of whom expressed outrage at the alleged incident and the broader issue of military overreach.
Pastor Idowu Bankole (@Olubankoleidowu) launched a scathing criticism of the young officer, calling him “a disgrace to the naval force,” and accusing him of cowardice and misplaced loyalty. “His mates are showing courage against terrorism and banditry. This extremely weak officer is here saying he is not a fool. So who is the fool if not him?” he wrote.
Bankole further condemned the alleged involvement of a retired naval chief who reportedly issued the controversial order, saying, “These officers are used to harassing civilians. The naval chief couldn’t follow due process but sent troops to guard a parcel of land while Nigerians suffer under bandits and terrorists.”
However, others defended Lt. Yerima’s actions. Utumax (@Utumax1) hailed him as “a true symbol of courage and resilience,” noting that the officer “stood his ground and stopped the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in his tracks, proving that power should never be used to intimidate others.”
Commentator Mudiaga (@Mudiaga247) emphasised that the incident reflected deeper governance problems, saying, “When those in power manipulate institutions meant to serve the people, it erodes trust and undermines democracy. The military should never serve personal interests or political egos.”
Meanwhile, Umar Sani (@UmarSanithecat) urged caution, describing Sowore’s take as “politically charged” and unnecessary, suggesting that personal or ideological biases might have influenced the activist’s comments.
As the controversy grows, the Nigerian public remains divided, some calling for disciplinary measures against the officer, others applauding his defiance as an act of principle.
As of press time, neither the Nigerian Army, Navy, nor the FCT Ministry had issued an official statement on the matter.
