The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has rejected reports alleging that Navy Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima survived an assassination attempt in Abuja, insisting the claims are false and unsubstantiated.
The clarification followed widespread social media posts and reports (excluding PUNCH) claiming that Yerima was chased by unidentified men wearing black clothing and driving two unmarked Hilux vans without number plates. The alleged pursuit was said to have started near the NIPCO filling station along the Kubwa Expressway and continued toward Gado Nasco Way.
The reports suggested that Yerima escaped the supposed attackers through what was described as a strategic move during a high-speed chase. The claims fueled speculation that the incident might be connected to his recent confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over a contentious land dispute.
In a statement issued late Sunday, the FCT Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, dismissed the claims, stating that no such incident had been recorded or reported anywhere within Abuja.
She said the public should disregard the circulating reports, describing them as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary alarm.
The command also encouraged residents to remain alert and promptly report suspicious activities to nearby police stations.
Yerima made headlines on November 11 after a heated confrontation with Wike at a disputed plot in the Gaduwa District. The land is said to belong to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (retd.). Viral videos captured Yerima preventing Wike’s convoy from accessing the site.
Wike accused the retired naval chief of unauthorized development on the land and criticised Yerima for allegedly assaulting officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority who were assigned to stop the construction.
The exchange sparked nationwide debate. While many said Wike acted within his authority, military veterans defended Yerima, rejecting calls for disciplinary action and demanding an apology from the minister.
In a separate update, Minister of Defence Mohammed Abubakar assured that no military officer performing lawful duties would be penalized, adding that the government would continue to protect personnel acting within the law.
