Nigerian Navy Lieutenant Yarima evades assassins in a terrifying incident Sunday evening. Unidentified assailants pursued him aggressively through the nation’s capital. The close call occurred days after Yarima publicly confronted FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Men dressed entirely in black drove two unmarked Hilux vans. Consequently, the vehicles lacked number plates. They trailed the officer from a NIPCO Filling Station off the Kubwa Expressway. Therefore, the vans accelerated rapidly toward Gado Nasco Way, creating a frantic chase.
The officer noticed the intense surveillance around 6:30 p.m. Subsequently, Lieutenant A.M. Yarima executed a brilliant “strategic maneuver.” He successfully escaped the suspected assailants during the high-speed pursuit. Military sources immediately confirmed the harrowing incident to Vanguard. The Nigerian Navy started a full investigation into the attempted attack. Furthermore, the sources assured the public the investigation receives “the seriousness it deserves.” Authorities currently withhold detailed information to protect the ongoing process.
This shocking pursuit directly follows the viral Gaduwa District land dispute. Specifically, Lieutenant Yarima engaged in a tense clash with Minister Wike over a disputed demolition site. Video footage of the confrontation sparked massive public outcry. Indeed, the clash prompted swift intervention from the Presidency. As a result, the Presidency immediately halted the contentious demolition exercise.
The military community strongly supports the officer. Retired veterans nationwide publicly criticized Minister Wike. They fiercely condemned Wike for verbally insulting Lieutenant Yarima on camera. Moreover, the veterans flatly rejected calls for disciplinary action against Yarima. Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, spokesman for the Coalition of Retired Veterans, issued a stark warning. Thus, he threatened ex-service members would “occupy the office and residence of the FCT Minister.” This strong sentiment stands if Yarima faced any punishment.
Minister of Defence Mohammad Badaru Abubakar quickly offered military assurance. He confirmed the government will not sanction any officer acting lawfully. Additionally, Badaru stated, “We will always protect officers and our armed forces personnel on lawful duty.” He added, “Any officer on lawful duty will be protected if he is doing his job lawfully.” This official backing underscores the extreme severity of the alleged attack. Ultimately, the attempted attack heightens public calls for urgent improved officer security. The successful escape means Lieutenant Yarima evades assassins but faces continued threats.