Rufai Oseni says Lt. Yerima deserves national award after clash with Wike

Key Points

  • The officer kept calm and refused to be provoked. Rufai Oseni called him deserving of a national award.
  • Wike shouted at the soldier during the public encounter. Witnesses said the officer replied with calm dignity.
  • The exchange sparked wide debate online and on TV. Many praised the officer and criticised the minister’s tone.

A video of the clash between Minister Nyesom Wike and a military officer went viral. Journalist Rufai Oseni praised the officer’s calm reply and called for an award.

Photo collage showing Nyesom Wike, Nigerian naval officer Lt. A.M. Yerima, and journalist Rufai Oseni — the trio at the centre of a viral exchange that drew national attention.
Image credit: Photo credit: Instablog9ja / X (formerly Twitter)

On X, Oseni praised the soldier and quoted his short reply directly. Read Wike mocks Peter Obi claim for earlier ValidUpdates coverage of Wike’s remarks.

The clip shows Wike arguing over a land dispute at the site. Video shows the soldier stand his ground and keep his men calm.

How the clash unfolded

At one point Wike used insults while the officer replied calmly. The moment cut through the crowd and viral clips spread fast.

Many people on social media praised the soldier and mocked Wike’s tone. Some called for respect to the uniform and for calm public discourse.

Lawyers said people should use the courts for land disputes. The military urged calm while it clarifies what really happened.

The military said it will investigate the exchange and report findings. Authorities asked both sides to avoid public rows while the probe runs.

What critics say

Commentators said the incident showed a gap in political decorum. Read our Wike says Abuja is safest report for context on recent Wike comments.

Oseni urged elders and leaders to teach respect and restraint. The exchange has renewed discussion about tone in public life.

Watch the full clip below.

Share With Friends

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *