Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denied reports circulating on social media alleging that he donated a brand-new Toyota SUV to Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima, the naval officer who clashed with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over a disputed piece of land in Abuja.
Atiku, in a statement issued Thursday through his X (formerly Twitter) handle by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, dismissed the claim as false and misleading.
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007), did not gift Lt. Ahmed Yerima or any other individual a brand new Toyota SUV, contrary to the false reports currently circulating on social media,” Ibe said.
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He described the viral story as “entirely fabricated” and urged the public to disregard it in its entirety.
Origin of the Claim
The false claim reportedly surfaced on Facebook on Wednesday, alleging that Atiku had rewarded the naval officer for standing up to Wike during their confrontation in Abuja.
Details of the Land Dispute
The incident occurred at Gaduwa District, Abuja, where Wike engaged Lt. Yerima and his team of armed naval personnel guarding a property allegedly linked to former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (rtd.).
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A video of the encounter, widely circulated online, showed Wike accusing the retired naval chief of illegally taking possession of government land. The footage sparked public debate over official conduct, respect for institutions, and the limits of ministerial authority.
Public Reactions and Wider Debate
The clash has continued to generate mixed reactions across social and political circles. While some Nigerians commended the naval officer for upholding his duty, others criticized Wike’s approach as confrontational and unbecoming of a senior government official.
Earlier, former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd.), emphasized that military uniforms represent the authority of the state and should be respected.
Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, also noted that there was no basis for disciplinary action against the officer involved in the incident.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
