Amanze Chinonye
Nigerian Navy officer Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, who recently drew national attention after a confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reportedly escaped an assassination attempt in Abuja on Sunday evening.
According to multiple credible media reports citing senior military sources, the incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. while the officer was driving along the Line Expressway, shortly after leaving the NIPCO Filling Station.
Sources say Yerima became suspicious when he noticed two unmarked Toyota Hilux vans, occupied by unidentified men dressed in black, trailing his vehicle. The vans, which reportedly bore no registration plates, followed him through Gado Nasco Way, a route not usually associated with heavy surveillance activity.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelREAD ALSO : Soldiers Clash with FCT Minister Wike Over Disputed Land in Abuja
The officer was said to have executed what sources described as a “strategic manoeuvre”, enabling him to evade the suspected assailants. No injuries were reported.
Military insiders quoted in the reports confirmed that the matter has been escalated to the appropriate security units and is undergoing investigation. However, officials have withheld further operational details to avoid compromising ongoing inquiries.
The incident comes days after Yerima was involved in a high-profile face-off with Minister Wike at a disputed parcel of land in the Gaduwa district of Abuja. The confrontation, captured on video and widely circulated online, saw the naval officer standing his ground while asserting he was acting on lawful orders.
The altercation sparked national debate and drew responses from security and political stakeholders. The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, had publicly defended Yarima’s conduct, affirming that no military personnel carrying out legitimate duties would be punished. Various veterans’ groups also voiced strong support for the officer, warning against perceived intimidation of service members.
Though speculation has linked the alleged assassination attempt to the recent dispute involving the FCT minister, investigators have not confirmed any motive.
Officials say the case is being treated with “the seriousness it deserves,” and further updates will be provided as the probe progresses.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
