Hey everyone, welcome back to the blog! If you’ve been following Nigerian news lately, you’ve probably heard about the dramatic clash between Nigerian Navy Lieutenant Ahmad Yarima (often spelled Yerima) and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Well, things just got even more intense with reports of an attempted assassination on the officer. But hold up – the police are saying it’s all fake news. Let’s dive into what happened, based on the latest reports.

t all started on November 11, 2025, when Lt. Yarima, while on duty, stood his ground during a land dispute inspection in Abuja’s Gaduwa District. Minister Wike, known for his no-nonsense style, got into a verbal altercation with the officer, even calling him a “fool” on camera. The video went viral, sparking outrage from military veterans and the public. Former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai called it “profound indiscipline” and a threat to national security. The Presidency stepped in, suspending the demolition at the site to cool things down.

Military veterans, via the Coalition of Retired Veterans, rallied behind Yarima. Spokesman Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts warned that if the officer faced punishment, they’d occupy Wike’s office and residence. He emphasized: “Military personnel swear allegiance to Nigeria, not to individual political office holders.” Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar also assured protection for officers on lawful duty.

Fast forward to November 16, 2025: Reports surfaced that Lt. Yarima narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in Abuja. According to military sources, he was trailed by unidentified men in black outfits, driving two unmarked Hilux vans without plates. This happened around 6:30 p.m., from NIPCO Filling Station off the Kubwa Expressway to Gado Nasco Way. Yarima reportedly spotted them and pulled off a “strategic manoeuvre” to shake them off. The incident was said to be under serious investigation.

Social media exploded with the news. Posts on X (formerly Twitter) ranged from shock to prayers for Yarima’s safety. One user shared: “Lieutenant Yarima the courageous Navy officer… reportedly escaped an assassination attempt. Wonders shall Never End😱😱” Another questioned: “BREAKING: Lt. AM Yarima escapes assassination attempt in Abuja. Who’s after Yerima’s life?”

But the FCT Police Command quickly shut down the rumors. In a statement, spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh called the reports “false and unverified,” urging the public to ignore them to avoid panic. “No such incident has been reported or recorded anywhere within the Federal Capital Territory,” she said. They advised reporting suspicious activities instead of spreading unconfirmed claims.

Despite the denial, some sources noted military personnel and patrol vehicles were deployed to the area, hinting at ongoing probes. The Nigerian Navy hasn’t officially commented yet.