Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting all members of the armed forces performing their lawful duties across the country.
Speaking during a ministerial press briefing at the National Defence College in Abuja on Wednesday, Badaru emphasized that no officer acting within the scope of legitimate authority would be left vulnerable. The briefing was held ahead of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration.
His comments follow the recent confrontation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer, Lieutenant A. M. Yerima, during a dispute over a piece of land in Abuja allegedly connected to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (rtd).
Addressing journalists on the matter, Badaru confirmed that the Ministry of Defence was already reviewing the incident, while stressing that lawful conduct by military personnel remains a non-negotiable line of protection for the government.
“At the Ministry, and indeed within the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers who are on lawful duty,” Badaru said.
“We are looking into this issue and assure Nigerians that any officer acting within the law will be fully protected. We will not allow anything to happen to him, provided he is doing his job, and doing it well.”
The minister’s statement comes amid public debate surrounding a viral video showing a heated exchange between Wike and the naval officer at a construction site in the Gaduwa District of Abuja.
In the clip, Wike is seen accusing the officer of obstructing access to the contested property and insisting that no one, including security personnel, is above the law.
The naval officer, however, maintained that he was following superior orders, leading to a tense standoff that has since drawn mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media.
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As investigations continue, the Defence Ministry’s position appears clear: any service member acting within lawful authority will receive full institutional backing — a stance aimed at reinforcing discipline, professionalism, and morale within Nigeria’s armed forces.
