The Convener of the #Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies, Ambassador Mary Abayomi Fatile, has strongly condemned the alleged physical and verbal assault on a uniformed naval officer by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Ambassador Fatile described the incident which reportedly occurred during an inspection visit to a construction site in the Gaduwa District of the FCT as “uncalled for, unbecoming of a public officer, and a direct affront to the honour and integrity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.”
She expressed deep concern over the viral video showing the Minister engaging in a heated altercation with Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, a naval officer on lawful duty, stressing that such behavior erodes respect for the uniform and weakens the morale of the nation’s security personnel.
“It is unacceptable for any public official, regardless of position or power, to humiliate or assault a member of the Armed Forces who is serving the nation with dedication. This incident sends a dangerous message that political authority can trample on institutional discipline and national honour,” Ambassador Fatile said.
She called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently call the Minister to order and demand a public apology to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the officer involved.
According to her, Lieutenant Yerima’s composure and professional restraint throughout the encounter reflected the highest standards of military discipline and leadership expected of the Nigerian Navy.
“Lieutenant Yerima acted with dignity, self-control, and respect for the uniform he represents. While many might have reacted emotionally, he upheld the military’s code of conduct and protected the image of the Armed Forces. Such restraint should be commended, not ridiculed,” she added.
Ambassador Fatile reiterated that Nigeria’s Armed Forces and other security agencies deserve respect, moral support, and cooperation from all citizens especially political leaders given their sacrifices in defending the country against terrorism, banditry, and other threats to national unity.
She further urged civil society organizations, religious leaders, and patriotic Nigerians to stand in solidarity with the military, warning that demoralizing the nation’s defenders could have serious implications for national security.
“Our campaign, #Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies, is founded on promoting mutual respect between civilians and those in uniform. We therefore condemn any form of assault, provocation, or intimidation against security personnel. Leadership must be exercised with civility, humility, and respect for institutions,” she emphasized.
Ambassador Fatile reaffirmed her organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering unity, prayers, and sustained public support for members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies across Nigeria.
Ambassador Mary Abayomi Fatile
Convener, #Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies
Abuja, Nigeria