The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General O.O. Oluyede, has publicly commended Lieutenant Yerima for his professionalism and restraint during a widely circulated confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, at a disputed land site in Abuja.
In a statement released following the incident, which has ignited national debate, General Oluyede praised the officer’s calm demeanour in the face of verbal provocation.
“The officer’s response reflects admirable composure and emotional intelligence qualities that lie at the heart of military leadership training,” he said.
The CDS emphasised that the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) instils discipline, emotional intelligence, and leadership in its cadets, not docility.
He lauded Lt. Yerima’s ability to remain firm and respectful despite the minister’s harsh tone, describing it as a testament to the military’s core values.
General Oluyede did not mince words regarding the minister’s conduct, calling it “unfortunate and inappropriate.”
He stressed that public officials must model civility, especially when interacting with members of the Armed Forces.
“It is both unfortunate and inappropriate for a federal minister to use such language toward a serving officer. Public officials should model restraint and respect, particularly when addressing those in uniform who embody national service and sacrifice,” he stated.
Quoting a well-known military maxim, the CDS added, “Every soldier has an element of madness… for while the right-thinking man withdraws from danger, a soldier charges towards it,” underscoring the courage and resolve expected of military personnel.
General Oluyede confirmed that the matter is currently under his review.
The altercation has sparked widespread public reaction, with many Nigerians applauding Lt. Yerima’s conduct and calling for greater accountability and decorum from government officials.
