The Convener of #Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies, Ambassador Mary Abayomi Fatile, has strongly condemned the recent physical and verbal attack on a uniformed Naval Officer by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike.
Ambassador Fatile described the incident, which reportedly occurred during an inspection visit to a construction site in the Gaduwa District of Abuja, as “uncalled for, and a direct affront to the honour and integrity of Nigeria’s military institution.”
In a statement made available to journalists in Abuja, she said it was unacceptable for any public official, no matter their position, to publicly humiliate or physically assault any member of the Armed Forces, whose duty is to defend the sovereignty of the nation and uphold law and order.
“We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate video circulating on social media showing the Minister of the FCT engaging in a heated altercation with a Naval officer performing his lawful duties. This act not only undermines the morale of our security personnel but also sends a dangerous signal that political authority can trample on institutional discipline and national honour,” Ambassador Fatile stated.
She urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call the Minister to order and demand a public apology to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the specific officer involved in the incident, Lieutenant A.M. Yerima.
According to her, the officer’s composure and professional restraint during the confrontation demonstrated the core values of discipline and respect that define the Nigerian Navy.
“Lieutenant Yerima acted in the most disciplined and dignified manner expected of a professional officer. While others might have reacted emotionally, he upheld the military code of conduct and protected the image of the Armed Forces. Such conduct deserves commendation, not humiliation,”
she added.
Ambassador Fatile reiterated that the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies deserve respect and moral support from all Nigerians, particularly political leaders, given their sacrifices in defending the nation against insecurity and other threats.
She further called on civil society organisations, religious leaders, and citizens to rise in solidarity with the military, warning that any attempt to demoralise the nation’s defenders could weaken Nigeria’s collective security architecture.
“Our campaign, #Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies is built on promoting mutual respect between civilians and security operatives. We therefore condemn any form of assault, provocation, or intimidation directed at those in uniform. National leaders must lead by example in promoting civility and institutional respect,” Ambassador Fatile emphasised.
She concluded by reaffirming her organisation’s continued commitment to fostering unity, prayers, and support for the Armed Forces and other security agencies across Nigeria.
