Lt. Ahmed Yerima, a naval officer previously involved in a public dispute with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over land in Abuja, was stopped by police on Sunday for driving a car with a covered number plate.
A video circulating online shows police questioning Yerima, who allegedly refused to identify himself and reportedly insulted the officers instead. The incident occurred during a routine stop-and-search operation along Kubwa Expressway near NNPC Junction.
The FCT Police Command has dismissed claims circulating on social media, particularly by blogger Mazitundeednut, that Yerima was attacked by officers, describing the reports as “false and grossly misleading.”
In a statement on Monday, Police Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh explained that the patrol team intercepted an ash-colored Toyota Camry with fully tinted windows and a concealed plate. Officers requested the driver’s identification, but Yerima allegedly refused to cooperate and made several phone calls.
According to the statement, three naval personnel later arrived, identified Yerima as their colleague, and recorded video and photo evidence of the encounter before leaving. The police team then allowed the vehicle to continue without further incident.
SP Adeh emphasized that the police acted according to standard operational procedures and condemned the spread of “maliciously crafted tales” suggesting an attack or assassination attempt.
The incident raises questions about the authority of police to stop military personnel in civilian vehicles. Should military officers be treated differently during routine traffic stops?
