A Nigerian Navy officer, Lieutenant A.M. Yarima, has narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Sunday evening, just days after a heated confrontation with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.
Military sources confirmed to Vanguard that Yarima was followed by two unmarked Hilux vans, with men dressed in black, as he drove from a NIPCO filling station along the Line Expressway to Gado Nasco Way. The suspicious movements of the vehicles raised immediate alarms. Realizing the potential threat, Yarima executed a swift “strategic maneuver” to shake off his pursuers around 6:30 p.m.
Officials are treating the incident as “sensitive” and are withholding certain details to protect the ongoing investigation.
This attack comes on the heels of Yarima’s viral altercation with Wike, which erupted at a disputed land site in Gaduwa. The tense exchange, which went public, sparked outrage and led to a suspension of the demolition exercise ordered by the minister. The verbal attack on the Navy officer by Wike drew widespread condemnation from military veterans, who labelled the minister’s actions disrespectful.
Veteran groups quickly rallied behind Yarima, with spokesman Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts warning that former military personnel were prepared to stage a protest and “occupy” Wike’s office and residence should any disciplinary action be taken against the officer. They stressed that military members owe allegiance to the nation, not individual politicians.
In a bid to calm tensions, Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, reassured the public that no officer acting within the law would face punishment. He emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding personnel who perform their duties with professionalism.
As the investigation into the assassination attempt continues, the young officer remains at the center of a nationwide debate about military respect and the role of civilian leadership. The growing support for Yarima reflects the deep-rooted pride within the military community.
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