Legal Expert Condemns Viral Naval Officer's Actions
A Nigerian lawyer has sparked controversy by dismissing the widespread public support for Lieutenant Yerima, the naval officer who confronted Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike in a now-viral video. The legal professional took to social media platform X to express his strong views on the incident that has captured national attention.
The Abuja Property Confrontation
The controversy began when FCT Minister Nyesom Wike attempted to access a property in Abuja but was prevented from doing so by Lieutenant Yerima, who was acting on orders from a superior officer claimed to have retired. The confrontation between the high-profile minister and the determined naval officer was recorded and quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering diverse reactions from Nigerians.
In his social media post dated November 13, 2025, the lawyer identified by his handle @_empighalo responded to another user's praise for the naval officer with blunt criticism. "LMAO. What he did was nonsense o and finds no legal support," the lawyer stated unequivocally.
Public Support Driven by Anti-Wike Sentiment
The legal expert suggested that the overwhelming support for Lieutenant Yerima stems more from public dissatisfaction with Minister Wike than from the merits of the officer's actions. "We are only supporting him because of the other guy," he noted, indirectly acknowledging the minister's controversial public perception.
This perspective highlights the complex dynamics at play in Nigerian public discourse, where actions are often judged based on the individuals involved rather than their legal or ethical standing alone.
Mixed Public Reactions
The lawyer's comments triggered immediate responses from social media users, revealing divided opinions on the incident:
@snrapostle11 commented: "Deploying armed personnel to block a federal minister executing lawful duties violates the 1999 Constitution and Armed Forces Act. Military force cannot be used to shield private interests in civil disputes. Lt. Yarima's composure was admirable — but his presence was illegal."
@DrSamuelAkinye1 defended the officer: "The guy is a perfect Gentleman, he was never rude all through. He only resisted Wike's Verbal Abuses and stood his grounds on the orders he was given."
@ndigwe_ugochi provided political context: "Wike will use this unfortunate event to measure the degree of dislike Nigerians have for him. The superior that gave this young soldier the order to stop the minister from accessing the property is totally wrong."
Family Pride and Military Support
Despite the legal criticism, support for Lieutenant Yerima has extended to his personal life. The officer's sister went viral with her expression of family pride, promising to do his laundry for a month to celebrate his bravery. Meanwhile, another soldier praised Yerima's conduct so highly that he suggested the naval officer should marry his daughter.
The incident continues to generate discussion about the proper role of military personnel in civil matters and the boundaries of authority between government officials and armed forces personnel.
