What began as a routine inspection on Monday, November 11, 2025, quickly escalated into a dramatic standoff in Gaduwa, Abuja, drawing residents into the streets. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike arrived with his convoy to inspect a construction site allegedly converted from recreational land to residential use without proper approval.
According to Wike, he was also there to support Development Control officers who had earlier been blocked by military personnel.
At the centre of the confrontation was Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, who calmly instructed his men to stand down despite rising tension. When Wike shouted at him, calling him a fool, Yerima’s response — “I’m an officer, I have my integrity… I am not a fool” — immediately went viral.
The disputed parcels, including Park No. 161 in Garki II and a green area in Gaduwa, had existing FCTA documentation showing legal allocation, though some approvals were reportedly revoked later, fueling further debate.
The incident triggered nationwide reactions. Human rights activists, retired military chiefs, and civil society groups praised Yerima’s restraint, arguing that public humiliation of an officer undermines discipline. Some, however, defended Wike’s actions, insisting he was enforcing land-use regulations.
Former defence chiefs warned that disrespecting the uniform threatens national security, while veterans vowed to protest if Yerima faced punishment. Others argued the minister should have followed formal channels before confronting military personnel on site.
Wike later clarified that he had no issues with the military, insisting he was misunderstood and only performing his duty. He stressed that no officer is obliged to obey an illegal order.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu quietly intervened to calm tensions, earning praise for preventing the situation from escalating into a wider institutional conflict.
By Thursday, the bulldozer stationed on the land was withdrawn, prompting applause from residents. For many, the moment symbolised a desire for order, fairness, and a return to governance guided by due process rather than public confrontations.
