The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has dismissed claims that a Nigerian Navy officer, Lt. Ahmed Yerima, survived an assassination attempt in Abuja, describing the reports circulating across social media and some news platforms (excluding PUNCH) as false and unsubstantiated.
According to the viral accounts, Yerima was allegedly trailed by unidentified men dressed in black and riding in two unmarked Hilux vans without number plates. The supposed chase reportedly began around 6:30 p.m. at the NIPCO filling station along the Kubwa Expressway and continued through Gado Nasco Way, with the officer said to have escaped through a “strategic manoeuvre.”
The speculation quickly gained momentum, with many linking the alleged incident to Yerima’s recent confrontation with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, over a disputed land in Gaduwa District.
However, in a statement released late Sunday, the FCT Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, firmly debunked the narrative.
“The attention of the FCT Police Command has been drawn to publications circulating on social media alleging an attempted assassination on Lt. Ahmed Yerima. The command wishes to categorically state that no such incident has been reported or recorded anywhere within the Federal Capital Territory,” the statement read.
She urged the public to disregard the “false information” and avoid spreading unverified claims capable of inciting needless panic. Adeh further encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police division.
Yerima recently made headlines after clashing with Minister Wike on November 11 at a disputed plot reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (retd.). Viral videos captured the moment Yerima, while on security detail, blocked the minister’s team from accessing the property, leading to a heated exchange in which Wike rebuked him harshly.
The confrontation has since sparked nationwide debate, with opinions split between those who believe the minister was enforcing due process and others who insist Yerima acted within his professional bounds. Military veterans have publicly backed the officer, demanding an apology from Wike.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar, has assured that no military personnel acting lawfully will be punished, reiterating, “We will always protect officers on lawful duty,” during preparations for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
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