Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially denied allegations that he gifted a brand-new Toyota SUV to Naval officer Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima, who recently clashed with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike over a land dispute in Abuja.
Atiku's Media Team Issues Strong Denial
Atiku's Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, released a statement categorically denying the viral social media reports that claimed the former vice president had rewarded Yerima with a vehicle following the heated confrontation with Minister Wike. The statement, issued via Ibe's X handle on Thursday, November 13, 2025, described the reports as completely fabricated.
Ibe explicitly stated: "His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, Vice President of Nigeria (1999-2007), did not gift Lt. Ahmed Yerima — or any other individual — a brand new Toyota SUV, contrary to the false reports currently circulating on social media. The story is entirely fabricated and should be completely disregarded by the public."
The Background: Wike vs Naval Officer Confrontation
The controversy stems from a recent incident where FCT Minister Nyesom Wike was blocked and prevented by Yerima and other Naval officers from accessing a piece of land in Abuja. The confrontation reportedly involved heated arguments between the minister and the military officer over land claimed by the former Chief of Naval Staff.
The incident has drawn significant attention from various quarters, including condemnation from prominent Nigerians such as former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai. The altercation has sparked broader discussions about land administration and military-civilian relations in the Federal Capital Territory.
Broader Reactions and Implications
Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru has reacted to the fallout between his FCT counterpart and the naval officer, though specific details of his response weren't elaborated in the initial reports. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters added to the discourse by posting a cryptic message on its X handle on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, stating that "it is a thing of honour and privilege to serve in the Nigerian military."
The viral nature of the false SUV gift story highlights the ongoing challenge of misinformation on social media platforms, particularly concerning high-profile political figures and sensitive security matters. Atiku's team felt compelled to issue a formal denial to counter what they described as entirely fabricated claims circulating widely online.
As the situation develops, the public awaits further clarification on the original land dispute that sparked the confrontation between Minister Wike and Lieutenant Yerima, while Atiku's camp hopes their swift denial will put an end to the unfounded SUV gift allegations.
