By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Olumayowa Akogun-Abudu and Nyesom Wike |
Abuja, Nigeria – Olumayowa Akogun-Abudu, a respected military veteran and corporate security professional, has publicly condemned the actions of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, following a widely circulated incident involving a confrontation with Lieutenant A. M. Yerima of the Nigerian Navy.
The altercation, which has sparked significant debate on social media, allegedly involved Minister Wike verbally demeaning the uniformed naval officer while he was performing his lawful duty.
In a strong statement, Akogun-Abudu expressed his professional dismay at the Minister's conduct. "As a military veteran and corporate security professional, I consider it necessary to address the incident circulating in which the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, verbally demeaned a uniformed naval officer performing his lawful duty," he stated.
He emphasized the institutional authority represented by uniformed personnel, stating, "Uniformed personnel on official assignment are representatives of the Nigerian state. Their authority is institutional, not personal. Regardless of rank or status, no public official has the prerogative to verbally abuse, intimidate, or insult any member of the Armed Forces in uniform while on duty. Such conduct is inconsistent with the standards of leadership required in a democratic government."
Akogun-Abudu reserved specific praise for Lieutenant Yerima’s conduct during the confrontation. "The naval officer in this incident demonstrated commendable discipline and restraint," he noted. "His calm and professional bearing under provocation reflects the values the military instills: self-control, respect for civilian authority, and adherence to rules of engagement. These qualities should be recognized, not ridiculed."
The security expert further argued that public office holders must be held to a higher standard. "Public office holders must exemplify accountability, emotional intelligence, and respect for state institutions," he said. "The Armed Forces, Police, and other uniformed service branches are pillars of national stability. Undermining their dignity in public erodes morale, weakens public confidence, and sends the wrong message to citizens and subordinates."
Outlining his core position, Akogun-Abudu made three key points: Respect for uniformed personnel must be upheld at all times. Disputes should be resolved through established procedures, not verbal intimidation. Leadership must be demonstrated through restraint, not aggression.
He added that underscoring the foundational importance of cooperation between civilian and military institutions for national progress. "National development requires cooperation between civilian authority and security institutions. Mutual respect is not optional; it is foundational."