Meet Ahmad Yerima, the Naval Officer Who Went Viral After Confrontation With Wike
Lieutenant Ahmad M. Yarima, the Nigerian Navy officer who stood firm against the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike during a tense confrontation in Abuja, has become an overnight national sensation.
On 11th November 2025, in Gaduwa District, what began as the routine enforcement of a stop-work order rapidly escalated into a viral shouting match that has captivated the nation.
Yarima’s composed defiance in the face of ministerial fury has been widely lauded as a symbol of discipline, courage, and professional integrity.
Background
Born and raised in Kaduna, Lieutenant A.M. Yarima hails from a region renowned for producing resilient and disciplined leaders. While details of his personal life remain private, as is customary for active-duty personnel, those acquainted with him describe a man of quiet fortitude, sharp intellect, and unwavering commitment.
A proud Muslim and son of Northern Nigeria, Yarima commenced his academic career in 2011 at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria, before transitioning to the esteemed Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna. There, he underwent the rigorous training that forges civilians into commissioned officers. Upon his graduation, Yarima was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, joining a force dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain in a challenging naval theatre.
A Rising Star in the Nigerian Navy
As a Lieutenant—a rank equivalent to an Army Captain—Yarima holds a junior officer position with considerable operational responsibilities. His service record includes deployment aboard the NNS Kada, a modern Thunder-class patrol vessel utilised for anti-piracy operations, maritime security, and protecting Nigeria’s vital oil infrastructure in the Gulf of Guinea. Colleagues and online supporters describe him as a “seasoned professional” with exceptional leadership attributes. His comprehensive training at the NDA and subsequent operational exposure clearly prepared him for handling high-pressure situations—qualities evident during his encounter with Minister Wike.
The Viral Confrontation: “I Am Not a Fool, Sir”
The flashpoint unfolded at Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District, a property allegedly owned by retired Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, the former Chief of Naval Staff (2021–2023). Minister Wike, accompanied by FCT officials and security, arrived to enforce a stop-work order, claiming the land lacked requisite documentation and building approvals. Naval personnel, led by Lt. Yarima, were stationed to secure the property.
What ensued was a tense, televised exchange. Wike demanded access and accused the officers of land grabbing. In a highly charged moment, he referred to Yarima as a “fool.” Utterly unperturbed, the lieutenant delivered a firm retort: “I am not a fool, sir. I am acting on orders from above.” He maintained his composure throughout, insisting the land was legally acquired and flatly refusing to be silenced. “You cannot shut me up,” he declared. The impasse only de-escalated after Minister Wike contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, but the exchange had already been captured on video and had gone viral across social media platforms.
National Hero or Target of Reprisal?
The footage spread instantly on X (formerly Twitter), garnering millions of views within hours. Citizens across Nigeria hailed Yarima’s poise and bravery. Influential voices joined the acclaim:
VeryDarkMan (VDM) pledged $1,000 as a tribute, calling him a “brave young soldier born with honour.”
Professor Farooq Kperogi commended his “infinite maturity” contrasted with Wike’s “arrogance.”
Military veterans condemned the Minister’s conduct as deeply disrespectful to a uniformed officer, demanding an apology and threatening protests should Yarima face any sanctions.
Online petitions have been launched calling for his immediate promotion and a national honour, with many urging President Bola Tinubu to acknowledge his gallantry. One viral post proclaimed: “Power bows to character every time.” Yet, given Nigeria’s complex political landscape, such public defiance carries inherent risks, and many fear quiet reprisals against the young officer, even as his legend grows.
A Name That Means “Prince”
In Kanuri, “Yerima” (or Yarima) translates to “prince”—a fitting moniker for a man who conducted himself with regal composure under intense public scrutiny. Estimated to be in his late 20s or early 30s, Lt. Yarima represents a new generation of Nigerian officers: professional, highly disciplined, and unafraid to uphold the law—even when it means confronting the powerful.
As land allocation scandals in Abuja continue to dominate headlines, Lieutenant A.M. Yarima has emerged as an unexpected symbol of accountability. His steadfast stand was not merely about a single plot of land—it constituted a potent statement against impunity and the erosion of institutional respect. While he continues his quiet service, Nigeria now knows his name. For a nation craving heroes in uniform, Lieutenant Ahmad M. Yarima has become the face of defiant honour.