Abuja Police React to Report of Alleged Assassination Attempt on Lt Yerima

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has rejected reports claiming a Nigerian Navy officer, Lt. Ahmed Yerima, survived an assassination attempt in Abuja, insisting the story is baseless and unverified.

The rumour spread across several online platforms after claims surfaced that unidentified men in two unmarked Hilux vans trailed Yerima from a NIPCO filling station along the Kubwa Expressway to Gado Nasco Way around 6:30 p.m. It was alleged that the officer escaped through a swift manoeuvre during a high-speed chase.

The speculation intensified because of Yerima’s recent confrontation with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed land allocation in Abuja.

In a statement released Sunday night, police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh dismissed the account entirely, noting that no such incident was reported or documented anywhere in the FCT. She urged residents to ignore the circulating story and avoid sharing unverified claims that could create unnecessary tension.

Yerima was in the news on November 11 following a heated clash with Wike at a contested site in Gaduwa District. The land is linked to a retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo. Viral videos showed Yerima, who was on security duty, blocking the minister’s team from accessing the property. Wike accused the retired naval chief of illegal development and criticised Yerima for allegedly assaulting Federal Capital Development Authority personnel.

The confrontation triggered nationwide debate, with supporters of the minister arguing he acted within his authority, while many military veterans defended Yerima and demanded an apology from Wike.

Defence Minister Mohammed Abubakar later assured that no military personnel carrying out lawful duties would face sanctions, reaffirming government support ahead of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.