Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru has praised Lieutenant Yerima, a naval officer who stood up to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over access to a disputed land in Abuja. The land dispute is linked to a property reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (rtd). Speaking at a ministerial briefing on the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration at the National Defence College in Abuja, the Defence Minister reassured the nation that the Federal Government will protect and defend its armed forces when they are carrying out their lawful duties. "We will always stand by our officers who are performing their duties honestly and fairly," Badaru said. "Lieutenant Yerima has done a commendable job, and we will ensure his safety." The Defence Minister emphasised the government's commitment to maintaining discipline and authority within the armed forces. He assured that any officer performing their duties lawfully will receive full protection from the government. This pledge highlights the delicate balance between civil authorities and security personnel, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions around land access issues in Abuja. The confrontation between Lieutenant Yerima and Minister Wike has sparked a wider debate about the rights and responsibilities of security personnel in Abuja, and the need for a more effective approach to addressing land access disputes in the city. As the government looks to uphold discipline and authority within the armed forces, it must also find ways to address the underlying issues driving these tensions and ensure a harmonious relationship between civil authorities and security personnel.