Ambassador Mary Abayomi Fatile, Convener of the #Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies, has publicly condemned the alleged physical and verbal assault of a naval officer by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike.
The incident reportedly occurred during an inspection visit to a construction site in the Gaduwa District of Abuja, where Minister Wike was seen in a heated confrontation with Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, a uniformed naval officer. A video of the altercation has since circulated widely on social media, sparking public outcry.
Ambassador Fatile described the minister’s conduct as “uncalled for” and “a direct affront to the honour and integrity of Nigeria’s military institution.” In a statement issued in Abuja, she emphasised that no public official, regardless of rank, should publicly humiliate or physically assault members of the Armed Forces who are tasked with defending the nation’s sovereignty.
“We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate video showing the Minister of the FCT engaging in a heated altercation with a naval officer performing his lawful duties,” Fatile said. “This act not only undermines the morale of our security personnel but also sends a dangerous signal that political authority can trample on institutional discipline and national honour.”
She called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene by calling the Minister to order and demanding a public apology to both the Nigerian Armed Forces and Lieutenant Yerima. Fatile praised the officer’s calm demeanour during the confrontation, noting that his restraint exemplified the discipline and professionalism expected of the Nigerian Navy.
“Lieutenant Yerima acted in the most disciplined and dignified manner expected of a professional officer,” she stated. “While others might have reacted emotionally, he upheld the military code of conduct and protected the image of the Armed Forces. Such conduct deserves commendation, not humiliation.”
Fatile also urged civil society organisations, religious leaders, and citizens to stand in solidarity with the military, warning that any attempt to demoralise the nation’s defenders could jeopardise Nigeria’s collective security.
“Our campaign is built on promoting mutual respect between civilians and security operatives,” she said. “We therefore condemn any form of assault, provocation, or intimidation directed at those in uniform. National leaders must lead by example in promoting civility and institutional respect.”
She concluded by reaffirming her organisation’s commitment to fostering unity, prayer, and support for the Armed Forces and other security agencies across the country.
