The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has commended the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, the Minister of State for Defence, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O. Olukayode, for upholding professional standards demonstrated by Navy Lt. AM Yerima during a recent encounter with the former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike.
It will be recalled that Navy Lt. AM Yerima, alongside other naval personnel acting under superior orders, prevented Minister Wike from accessing a landed property belonging to the former Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral AZ Gambo (Rtd), in Abuja.
The young naval officer conducted himself in full accordance with global military standards, exhibiting discipline, composure, and decorum hallmarks of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The NYCN stressed that his actions reflect the integrity and professionalism expected of military personnel.
The Council noted that engaging with Navy Lt. AM Yerima in a confrontational manner was, in essence, engaging with the Nigerian state itself, which transcends any individual.
His conduct, therefore, deserves commendation, accolades, and serves as a model for strict adherence to professional standards in the line of duty.
NYCN also criticized the National Youth Council of Nigeria for issuing a letter of apology to Minister Wike, emphasizing that the letter did not reflect the views or consent of the Nigerian youth.
As a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Minister Wike is expected to recognize that the officer acted appropriately.
The Council called on all public office holders, including politicians, to prioritize the interests of the Nigerian state above personal or partisan considerations.
PR: Adamu Yusuf