A Minister of Particular Concern

By Ugo Onuoha A Minister of Particular Concern “What happened between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Navy Lieutenant A.M. Yerima is unfortunate. When Wike arrived at the site of the disputed land in Abuja, the officer explained that he was simply obeying lawful orders. Wike should not have exchanged words with the officer; he ought to have addressed his concerns through the officer’s superiors. He is our colleague, and he could have reached out to us to resolve whatever issue there was. “The officer’s action was lawful—he was trained to be disciplined, loyal, and obedient to orders. Therefore, the young officer merely carried out his duty, which is worthy of commendation. He did not commit any offence under military regulations. If you observe carefully, he spoke respectfully and conducted himself properly. “There is, therefore, no offence under military law for which he should be charged. Wike should not have engaged him in an altercation, especially out of respect for the uniform he was wearing. Anyone who disrespects a soldier indirectly disrespects the President, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. There is, therefore, no basis for any punishment against the officer. This is not about supporting the military to act disrespectfully towards civilians. The Minister should understand that every officer has superiors. “I gathered that he called the Chief of Defence Staff, who advised him to wait for an investigation. However, he did not wait and instead went straight to the site. As a leader, he ought to have exercised patience and waited for the outcome of the investigation. Wike also contacted the Chief of Naval Staff, who assured him that an inquiry would be conducted. Yet again, he did not wait. It was supposed to be a one-day inquiry, but he chose to go there and confront them. Now that the Chief of Naval Staff has visited the area—since it involves a land dispute—the matter will be investigated to determine who owns the lawful documents. If the land has been revoked, there are established procedures to follow diplomatically. “We [the Ministry of Defence] have not received any formal complaint from Wike, but I called him after the video went viral and advised that he should have spoken with me before going there, rather than confronting the officers directly.” A Matter Effectively Closed I have chosen to reproduce the words of Alhaji Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, because of what they represent. Although he mentioned the need for further investigation, the tone and tenor of his statement suggest that the matter is effectively closed—and the naval officer has nothing to worry about. Lt. Yerima, by every indication, acquitted himself well. He was professional and measured in his conduct during that very public confrontation with a “super minister” known for his loquacity. To reinforce the sense that the matter is closed, one only needs to recall the words of the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, who stated that his ministry and the armed forces “will always protect our officers on lawful duty.” Badaru added: “We will not allow anything to happen to him so far as he is doing his job, and he is doing his job greatly well.” The defence minister made this statement during a ministerial briefing for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Abuja. Let that sink in. You may call it esprit de corps, but several retired generals from both the North and the South—including former Chiefs of Defence Staff and Army Staff, Generals Lucky Irabor and Tukur Buratai—have spoken in Yerima’s defence. They even called for a public apology from Wike to both Yerima and the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu, for dishonouring a military officer commissioned by the President himself. Lawyers, Silence, and Political Optics Notable voices have weighed in on the Wike–Yerima confrontation over the disputed plot of land in Abuja last Tuesday. Some are lawyers—senior and junior—while others are political commentators and public intellectuals. A few have argued in favour of Wike, citing the 1999 Constitution (as amended), but the majority have faulted him, emphasizing due process, the rule of law, and the impropriety of resorting to self-help, as appeared to be the case here. As usual, the legal community has been divided—lawyers seldom agree on anything, even when the law seems straightforward to the “unlearned.” For most of the past week, they have been doing what they do best: lawyering. Their disputations may be intellectually stimulating, but one must not take them too seriously. Often, their arguments are shaped by convenient partisanship masquerading as constitutional fidelity. By the way, has anyone noticed the deafening silence from Wike’s colleagues in the Federal Executive Council? Nearly fifty cabinet members, yet not one has publicly spoken in his defence. Does this silence reflect how they truly regard the Minister? As for President Tinubu, who appointed Wike “on our behalf,” the Minister may well be beyond reproach or removal—for obvious political reasons. The Politics of 2023 and the Future of 2027 Wike appears untouchable—because of the past (2023) and the future (2027). President Tinubu, ever the political strategist, prioritizes electoral victory by any means necessary—the Machiavellian creed that the end justifies the means. And Wike fits perfectly into that school of thought. Tinubu “discovered” Wike in 2023, when the latter was nearing the end of his governorship of oil-rich Rivers State. Having fallen out with his own party, the PDP, Wike was eager to prove his relevance. Tinubu needed a foothold in the Niger Delta and, by extension, the national electoral map. In that year’s presidential election, Wike reportedly “delivered” Rivers State to Tinubu—an opposition candidate—in defiance of his own party’s standard-bearer, Atiku Abubakar. An APC governor from the North, astonished by Wike’s performance, allegedly remarked that his party merely begged for 25 percent of the votes but received an overwhelming—and inexplicable—victory. Unsurprisingly, the PDP still won the subsequent governorship election by a landslide, demonstrating the complex web of political transactions that define Nigerian

Military releases slain terrorist commanders’ names

The Defence Headquarters, on Thursday released the names of terrorist kingpins killed during different operations in the northern part of the country. The DHQ noted that the terrorist commanders were killed in separate operations between January and March 2024. The names of the terrorist kingpins are Abu Bilal Minuki (aka Abubakar Mainok) – Head of Is-Al Furqan Province (ISGS and ISWAP) and Haruna Isiya Boderi. He was a notorious terrorist who operated along Birnin Gwari Forest in Kaduna State as well as the Abuja Kaduna Highway. He was killed by troops on 21 Feb 24. Others are Kachallah Damina (Neutralised on March 24 by troops. He was neutralised alongside over 50 combatants), Kachallah Alhaji Dayi, Kachallah Idi (Namaidaro), Kachallah Kabiru (Doka), Kachallah Azarailu (Farin-Ruwa), Kachallah Balejo, Ubangida, Alhaji Baldu among several others. The Director Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, revealed the names to journalists during a briefing in Abuja. He added that a total of 2,351 terrorists were killed while 2,308 were arrested and 1,241 kidnapped hostages were rescued during the period under review.

Nigerian Army Forces Eliminate Bandit, Seize AK47 Rifle in Kaduna Operation

Nigerian Army’s 1 Division reports the successful neutralization of a bandit and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle along with a magazine in Kaduna. Lt-Col. Musa Yahaya, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the Division, confirmed this achievement in a statement on Wednesday in Kaduna. Yahaya disclosed that the troops, acting on reliable intelligence, set up an ambush on a bandit route along Kwant-Kabai-Kubusu Road on Wednesday. As a result, one bandit was eliminated during the ensuing firefight while others managed to escape with gunshot injuries. “In addition to neutralizing a bandit, we retrieved one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, veterinary medicine, and clothing,” Yahaya stated. He further mentioned that Maj.-Gen. Valentine Okoro, the General Officer Commanding the Division, praised the troops for their steadfastness and urged locals to provide timely and credible intelligence to support security agencies.

Troops Neutralise Terrorists In Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo Operations

Troops of “Operation UDO KA II” in the South East conducted a clearance operation on terrorists’ hideout in Orsumoghu Forest in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra. Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division, who stated this at the weekend in Enugu, said the troops neutralised two terrorists. He added that the clearance operation centred on suspected hideouts of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN). Unuakhalu stated that the terrorist group deployed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) to slow down the troops, but the latter were undaunted. “The troops were able to dislodge the group; neutralised two of them, while others escaped with gunshot wounds. “Items recovered from the camps included a pair of military boots, one military belt, five mobile phones, one binoculars, leather hand gloves and police head warmer. “Others were one locally-made handheld IED and four locally-made IED launchers (Ogbunigwe),” he stated. Unuakhalu added that troops of Sector 2 of the “Operation UDO KA II’’ arrested a suspected gunrunner on Thursday while on a search-and-rescue mission at Effium in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi. He stated that the suspected gunrunner, one Francis Nwekire, 63, was arrested in his house with 48 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition. “Additionally, a suspected Effium Militia in Ebonyi was arrested and he led troops to their hideout. “Items recovered from the hideout were one AK 47 rifle, 20 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition and one AK 47 magazine. “Both suspects are presently in troops’ custody for further interrogation,’’ he stated. Unuakhalu also stated that troops of Naval Base, Oguta, under “Operation UDO KA II’’ began “Operation IRON TETE’’ on Friday to flush out IPOB/ESN elements from Agwa community in Imo. He added that during the operation, an identified member of the group, a known local gun fabricator nicknamed “Packing Store’’ was neutralised. He stated that items recovered during the operation were one pump-action rifle, one locally-made pistol and a head warmer with IPOB inscription. “Operation UDO KA II calls on law-abiding citizens of the Southeast not to relent in providing timely, credible and reliable information that will assist in ending this menace in the region. “Operation UDO KA II will continue combating crime and criminality in accordance with extant rules and regulations guiding its operations,’’ Unuakhalu stressed. 

Military Uncovers Gun Factory, Recovers Weapons In Southern Kaduna

Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a military task force, maintaining peace in Plateau, Bauchi and Kaduna States, has uncovered a gun factory at Kafachan, Jama’a Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State. Capt. James Oya, the Media Officer of the operation, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Jos. Oya said that it had also arrested one Napoleon John, a suspected gunrunner and recovered various types of weapons and ammunitions. He explained that the feat was possible owing to a week-long operation conducted by its troops. “In line with our resolve to deal decisively with sponsors and perpetrators of crime as well as mopping up illegal weapons in our joint operation area, our troops have uncovered a gun manufacturing factory in Kafanchan, Jama’a LGA of Kaduna State. “This followed a week-long intelligence operation that finally led to the capture of a wanted gunrunner, Napoleon John who has been on our wanted list. “The suspect, who confessed to the crime, led troops to a concealed factory where arms of different calibre were sold by another miscreant identified as Monday Dunia. “Dunia confessed to have been in the business for more than five years, fuelling the crisis in Kaduna State and neighbouring Plateau. “A thorough search of the factory led to the recovery of 22 different weapons, including seven pistols, two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, two military grade AK-47 rifles and nine revolvers,” he said. Oya said that its troops also recovered one submachine gun, rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, machine tools and a gas cylinder. “In a follow-up operation held between Thursday night and early hours of Friday, troops raided another hideout in Adua 1 community of Kafanchan and recovered additional two AK-47 rifles, two revolver rifles, live rounds of 9mm and 7.62 ammunitions, six dangerous daggers, one hacker axe. “Several empty cases of 7.62mm special rounds, two mobile phones, one fragmental jacket, two Police uniforms, one pair of military camouflage trousers, one ammunition magazine carrier, one pistol holster and one military grade camel pouch. “We also recovered one police combat helmet, two masks, four identity cards, gunpowder, shrapnels, charms and amulets. Oya said that the Commander of the operation, Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar, commended the troops for the feat and urged them to do more. He, however, warned sponsors and perpetrators of criminalities to abandon their evil ways and embrace lawful means of livelihood. He thanked residents of the state for cooperating with the military and other security agencies and called for more support towards a peaceful Plateau.

Military Neutralises 151 Terrorists, Apprehends 456 in 2 weeks –DHQ

The Defence Headquarters says troops of Armed Forces of Nigeria, have in the last two weeks eliminated a total of 151 terrorists and apprehended 456 others in different operations across the country. The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, stated this while giving update of military operations across the country on Thursday in Abuja. Buba said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 44 terrorists, arrested 21 and rescued four kidnapped hostages during the period. He said the troops recovered 17 AK47 rifles, three locally fabricated rifles, three locally made guns, one berretta pistol, three Dane guns and 116 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo. Also recovered according to him, are five rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 13 rounds of 9mm ammo, 20 rounds of 7.62 mm x 54 ammo, 42 empty and cases of 7.62 mm x 54 ammo. Others are 12 magazines, 50 jerry cans of PMS, three vehicles, five mobile phone, six motorcycles, three cutlasses and the sum of N3.18 million. Buba said the troops arrested some suspected terrorists’ collaborators in Jere and  Biu in Borno, as well as Gujba Local Government Area in Yobe. He said that troops also ambushed and raided suspected terrorists’ hideouts in Konduga and Gwoza Local Government Areas of Borno. The director said that the offensive resulted in elimination of terrorists and recovery of arms and ammunitions. In North Central, Buba said the troops of Operation Safe Haven neutralised 16 terrorists, arrested 16 and rescued one kidnapped hostage within the period. He said they also recovered 12 AK47 rifles, two pistols, five locally fabricated rifles, six dane guns, 32 rounds of 7.62mm special, 15 magazines and three motorcycles. Under Operation Whirl Stroke, he said the troops neutralised 15 terrorists, arrested six and rescued one kidnapped hostage as well as recovery of arms and ammunition. In North West, the defence spokesman said the troops of Operations Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch, neutralised 35 terrorists, arrested eight and rescued 17 kidnapped hostages within the period. He added that the air components of the various operations had continued to annihilate the terrorists from their various hideouts with series of air interactions.

COAS, Matawalle present as military lays 22 slain officers to rest

A somber atmosphere enveloped the National Military Cemetery in Abuja as military personnel, led by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Maj.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, along with grieving family members and friends, gathered to pay their final respects to fallen comrades who lost their lives in Niger State. The burial ceremony held special significance as it paid tribute to 36 officers who were tragically killed in action, including an air mission, on August 14, as reported by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ). The solemn event commenced with the arrival of Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, who arrived at approximately 9:46am. In attendance alongside him were Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, and several other service chiefs. The combined presence of high-ranking officials, military personnel, and the bereaved families underscored the gravity of the occasion. It is noteworthy that some of the deceased officers had already been laid to rest by their families. The ceremony included a roll call of the military personnel who were to be interred, commemorating their dedication and sacrifice. The list includes: LATE MAJOR SA ONI LATE FLIGHT LIEUTENANT ANTHONY DURYUMSU LATE FLIGHT LIEUTENANT IBRAHIM ADAMU LATE LIEUTENANT GM ODUSAMI LATE LIEUTENANT US ALKALI LATE SERGEANT FARUK MOHAMMED LATE CORPORAL IBRAHIM GARBA LATE CORPORAL CIROMA POGU LATE CORPORAL ADAMA ISAAC LATE CORPORAL HARUNA JAMILU LATE CORPORAL SAMAILA BASHIRU LATE ABLE SEAMAN SULEIMAN MK (NIGERIAN NAVY) LATE CORPORAL JAURU AMOS (NIGERIAN AIR FORCE) LATE LANCE CORPORAL SUNDAY OKOPI LATE LANCE CORPORAL EKPANYO EDET LATE LANCE CORPORAL ABARIBE DANIEL (NIGERIAN AIR FORCE) LATE LANCE CORPORAL BRIGGS STEPHEN (NIGERIAN AIR FORCE) LATE LANCE CORPORAL YAKUBU AYUBA LATE LANCE CORPORAL NURA MOHAMMED LATE PRIVATE HABIB ALIYU LATE PRIVATE TANKO WAJE LATE AIRCRAFTMAN ABUBAKAR ABDULRAHAMAN (NIGERIAN AIR FORCE) The ceremony stood as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals in the line of duty. Their commitment and dedication to Nigeria will forever be remembered, as their names echo in the hearts of those who gathered to honour their memory. May their souls rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Group slams military for burning vessels with stolen crude

*Says action destroys the ecosystem The Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) has decried the burning and destruction of vessels laden with stolen crude oil, describing it as a worrisome and environmentally unfriendly way of curbing oil theft. ERA/FoEN’s Executive Director, Barr. Chima Williams, in a statement signed by Communication Officer, Elvira Jordan, recently stated that the burning of crude oil-laden vessels disposes a high level of chemical content into the water bodies that destroys eco lives and aquatic organisms that humans need to survive.  “Destroying such vessels with their crude contents produces high-level chemical debris that follows tidal movement to other parts of the country. This kind of devastation destroys the aquatic organisms needed to satisfy man’s nutritional and survival needs. “What is discharged includes chemical contents from the crude and the vessels that are harmful to human health. The health implications of such activities may not have immediate effects but will be transferred to the people who inhabit these areas, as the primary occupation of the Riverine people is fishing and farming, which is dependent on the surrounding waters,” he said. He added that the destruction of crude oil laden vessels will also deprive the people of their sources of livelihood, when the chemical waste from the burnt vessels and crude oil comes in contact with the environment, killing aquatic life and poisoning the surrounding soil. The Executive Director stated that destroying and wasting stolen crude, is a disfavor to Nigeria’s economy noting that the product will generate funds that will build infrastructures and better the lives of the people. He said, “Destroying badges of crude that runs into millions is equivalent to denying the nation and its people of the revenue that can be derived from such large amounts of crude. This is a country in dire need of resources to rebuild the economy, to build infrastructures and to better the lives of the people. The country is in heavy dept, yet we are destroying sources of enhancing our economy. The burnt vessels can be transformed into other uses like enhancing the work of seafarers in the country.” On the legal implications, Williams explained that destroying the evidence would not make for the proper prosecution of the case. He stressed that such actions wipe away the key principles of the rule of law, as the chances of conviction or proper acquittal are no longer visible. According to him, this is a denial of justice to the nation, the individuals involved, and the victims of their negative operational conduct and activities. He called on military and security operatives to put an end to the burning of crude oil-laden vessels, as it goes against every tenet of environmental protection and environmental health.