When Authority Clashes Respect Shatters and Nigeria’s Military and Politicians Stand at a Crossroads

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

When Authority Clashes Respect Shatters and Nigeria’s Military and Politicians Stand at a Crossroads

“Respect is earned, not given,” a timeless truth that resonates deeply in the recent fiery encounter shaking Nigeria’s capital. At the heart of this storm is Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District, a parcel of land allegedly tied to retired Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo.

Minister Nyesom Wike, flanked by officials from the Federal Capital Development Authority, sought to enforce a stop-work order on what he called an illegal construction. But what should have been a routine civic duty quickly escalated into a clash between political power and military discipline.

Lieutenant Ahmad Yerima, a young naval officer charged with guarding the contested site, stood firm like a steadfast lighthouse amid a raging sea, blocking Wike’s access on orders from his superiors.

The tension boiled over into a viral public confrontation that split Nigerians along lines of loyalty, law, and respect.

Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, poured cold water on calls for sanctioning Lt. Yerima, applauding his “disciplined and professional” composure. “He was acting on orders,” Matawalle said, urging that such disputes be resolved behind closed doors, not in the court of public opinion.

President Bola Tinubu reinforced the call for support, reminding Nigerians that “they put their lives on the line” to defend the country’s sovereignty.

Yet, the brewing storm also drew sharp criticisms. Former militant leader Asari Dokubo called for Yerima’s reprimand, arguing the officer had overstepped his authority.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore lamented the blurring of military and civil roles, warning it signals a dangerous erosion of institutional boundaries.

Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, former Chief of Army Staff, did not mince words, condemning Wike’s public verbal assault on the uniformed officer as “a reckless act” that undermines military morale and national security.

Military veterans echoed the sentiment, insisting that respect for uniformed officers is foundational to Nigeria’s public order.

Minister Wike defended his actions, portraying himself as the guardian of law and order. “I have respect for the military,” he said, “but I will not allow the law to be trampled upon.”

He criticized the retired naval chief’s deployment of serving officers to guard disputed property, describing the obstruction of lawful enforcement as unacceptable.

Public sentiment found its voice in Nollywood actress Yvonne Jegede, who hailed Lt. Yerima’s courage, calling him “the face of a new Nigeria.” Social media influencer Very Dark Man (VDM) offered a $1000 reward to the officer, praising him as a symbol of “courage, discipline, and integrity.”

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi called the clash “an embarrassment,” lamenting the “institutional disorder” revealed by the incident and urging a return to “law, order, and respect for due process.”

Away from the political maelstrom, Lagos-based beauty expert Noranwando offered a grounded reflection in her interview with Africaworldnews:
“Respect isn’t about titles or uniforms alone, it’s a two-way street. When leaders forget humility and soldiers forget honour, it’s the nation that feels the sting.”

The incident serves as a mirror reflecting Nigeria’s struggle to reconcile authority with respect. Politicians appear to be biting off more than they can chew, while military officers, often the nation’s shield, find themselves in a crossfire of public opinion.

In the words of the great Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Nigeria’s leaders and defenders alike must remember this, for respect lost is a wound that cuts deep.

As the dust settles, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The future demands bridging divides with mutual respect, clear boundaries, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law. Only then can the delicate dance of governance and order proceed in harmony.

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Chioma Ndukwu

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