The National Coalition for Democratic Integrity Condemns Disrespectful Behavior by a Naval Officer
A group known as the National Coalition for Democratic Integrity (NCDI) has voiced strong disapproval over what it perceives as disrespectful behavior by a junior naval officer towards a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In a press statement, the coalition highlighted an incident involving Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima, who reportedly acted in a manner that was described as grossly disrespectful and unbecoming toward Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The statement emphasized that Lt. Yerima’s actions were not only an affront to the principles of civilian oversight and constitutional order but also undermined the values of discipline and respect that define the military profession.
- The conduct of Lt. Yerima in obstructing the Honourable Minister and officials of the Federal Capital Territory Authority from performing their official duties, under the guise of “obeying superior orders,” was not only a direct affront to the principles of civilian oversight and constitutional order on which our democracy relies but also undermines the fundamental values of discipline and respect that define the military profession.
The coalition expressed concern that while patriotic and dedicated officers are engaged in combating insurgency, violent crimes, oil bunkering, and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters, Lt. Yerima was allegedly “obeying orders” and protecting the “territories” of his master.
- Such conduct, if left unchecked, risks sending the wrong signal to the public and to the rank and file within the security services—that insubordination and contempt for civil authority can be tolerated. That would set a dangerous precedent.
The NCDI reiterated its stance that no individual in uniform or in public office is above the law or beyond accountability. It stressed the importance of respecting the dignity of civilian leadership as a safeguard for the order and stability of democracy.
- It should be noted that the military, as an institution of honour, service, and loyalty, derives its authority from the Constitution and exists to serve—not to challenge or undermine—civil leadership. No act of insubordination or discourtesy towards a civilian authority can ever be justified or tolerated.
The coalition urged the leadership of the armed forces, particularly the high command of the Nigerian Navy, to take this incident seriously, investigate it thoroughly, and ensure that appropriate disciplinary measures are applied in accordance with established procedures. It also called for reinforcing continuous education and orientation on civil–military relations, professionalism, and the constitutional boundaries that define them.
- We therefore urge the leadership of the armed forces, particularly the high command of the Nigerian Navy, to take this incident seriously, investigate it thoroughly, and ensure that appropriate disciplinary measures are applied in accordance with established procedures. Equally important is the need to reinforce continuous education and orientation on civil–military relations, professionalism, and the constitutional boundaries that define them.
The NCDI commended leaders across the country who have chosen restraint and due process in dealing with this matter. However, it criticized certain political figures for turning the incident into an opportunity to display biased attitudes.
- Celebrating the reprehensible behaviour of the junior naval officer merely because they dislike Nyesom Wike or hold different political views from him is equally juvenile and utterly contemptible.
The coalition also expressed concern over comments made by some retired generals and the purported remarks by the Ministers of Defence regarding the incident. It raised questions about whether the naval officer would have behaved differently if the minister were from a different region.
- Ultimately, a nation that tolerates disdain for its civilian institutions risks weakening the very foundation of its democracy.
The coalition called for a prompt and impartial investigation into the officer’s conduct, appropriate disciplinary measures consistent with military ethics, protocols, and professionalism. It also demanded institutional reinforcement of civil–military etiquette to prevent a recurrence, a public apology by Lt. Yerima and those whose orders he was purportedly obeying to the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and the Federal Capital Administration.
- We remind all stakeholders that discipline without respect is tyranny, and authority without accountability leads to instability. Our democracy must never surrender to arrogance or abuse of power, whether in uniform or out of it.
The coalition firmly expressed solidarity with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, as well as all public officials who uphold civility and respect in serving our nation.
- We urge the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to stay focused and not be distracted by the incident, but to remain committed and steadfast, working collaboratively with all sectors of government and security agencies to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people and residents of the Federal Capital Territory, in line with the mandate of Mr. President.
