Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd.), has criticised the public reactions trailing the clash between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer, Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima, describing many of the commentaries as misguided and lacking an understanding of what the military uniform represents.
Speaking at the National Dialogue on Media, Terrorism and National Security during the 21st All Nigeria Editors’ Conference in Abuja on Thursday, Irabor stressed that the uniform worn by security personnel embodies the authority, dignity, and sovereignty of the Nigerian state.
“The uniform is not about the individual wearing it; it represents the authority of the state. When you make disparaging remarks or act against a uniformed officer, you are insulting the state itself,” he said.
His remarks follow a viral video showing a heated confrontation in Gaduwa District, Abuja, where Lieutenant Yerima claimed to be protecting naval property while Wike accused him of land encroachment. The incident ignited widespread debate over the boundaries of ministerial power and military authority.
Irabor argued that much of the public commentary “missed the real issue,” which he identified as the sanctity of the uniform. He explained that even senior officers are bound by strict disciplinary rules and cannot act arbitrarily.
“Even as a General, I cannot slap my soldier. If I do, I will face disciplinary action. There are mechanisms for addressing misconduct, and that separates a lawful state from a jungle,” he said.
While acknowledging Wike’s constitutional control over land administration in the FCT, Irabor maintained that respect for uniformed personnel remains non-negotiable.
“If a uniformed person abuses authority, the system will deal with him. But the uniform itself must be respected. That is what sustains order in a civilised society,” he added.
The retired general expressed concern over a decline in civic education and public appreciation of national institutions, warning that eroding respect for symbols of authority poses risks to Nigeria’s stability.
“We must not turn our country into a jungle where everyone takes the law into their own hands. Respect the uniform. Respect what it stands for,” Irabor cautioned.
He emphasised that upholding the dignity of the uniform is essential for maintaining law, order, and the credibility of state institutions.
