A former classmate of the now-famous Naval Officer Lieutenant Ahmad Yerima has come forward with revealing details about the officer's background and personality, shedding new light on the man who stood firm against FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
University Days at Ahmadu Bello University
Aliyu Jalal, a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, disclosed that he attended the same institution as the viral naval officer during the same period. According to Aliyu, both men gained admission into the Faculty of Social Sciences in 2011, beginning their academic journeys simultaneously.
The former classmate revealed that Yerima was popularly known as 'MD' among his peers during their university days. He described the young Yerima as tall and lanky with a notable charm that made him popular with female students on campus.
Educational Journey and Career Path
Before his military career took shape, Yerima was pursuing a degree in Mass Communication at Ahmadu Bello University. However, his academic path took a significant turn when he left the university to join the Nigerian Defence Academy, marking the beginning of his distinguished military career.
Aliyu emphasized that Yerima was born and raised in Kaduna, providing important context about the officer's roots and background in northern Nigeria.
Public Reaction and Character Assessment
The former classmate expressed strong support for Yerima's actions during the now-viral confrontation with Minister Wike. In his Facebook post, Aliyu praised the officer for demonstrating discipline, bravery, and righteous fearlessness expected of a true military professional.
Aliyu's post read: "Regardless of whose interest he was safeguarding, he demonstrated the discipline, bravery, and righteous fearlessness expected of a true soldier. Respect."
The revelation has sparked significant reactions across social media platforms, with many Nigerians expressing admiration for the officer's professional conduct. Comments from various users highlighted:
- Appreciation for his absolute decorum and discipline
- Praise for his boldness and confidence in facing a powerful minister
- Recognition of his professionalism under pressure
- Support for his stance against what many perceived as ministerial overreach
Meanwhile, additional information from a farmer who has known Yerima for approximately ten years corroborates the positive character assessment. The farmer described Yerima as courageous and fearless, noting that he has always been one of the most respected and brilliant officers loyal to his duties.
The incident between Lieutenant Yerima and Minister Wike occurred on Tuesday, November 11, in Gaduwa, Abuja, when the naval officer prevented the minister from accessing a property, leading to the viral confrontation that has captured national attention.
