Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has assured that the federal government and military leadership will continue to protect soldiers performing their duties within the law.
Speaking at a ministerial press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday ahead of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Badaru’s remarks followed a heated altercation between FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and some military officers allegedly acting on behalf of a former Chief of Naval Staff.
“At the ministry, and indeed in the armed forces, we will always protect our officers on lawful duty,” Badaru stated.
“We are looking into this issue, and we assure you that any officer on lawful duty will be highly protected.”
Videos from Tuesday’s incident, which circulated online, showed Wike confronting soldiers at a disputed land site in Abuja. The minister demanded documentation proving ownership, while the soldiers insisted the landowner had all required approvals.
The incident has since sparked public debate over the military’s involvement in civil property disputes and the legal status of the contested land.