LunagisthubConstitutional Law Expert Weighs in on Wike-Naval Officer Face-Off With Wike
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Sebastine Hon, has condemned the actions of Naval Officer A.M. Yerima in his recent confrontation with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. The incident occurred when Yerima obstructed Wike’s access to a disputed plot of land in Abuja, citing “superior orders.”
Hon argues that Yerima’s actions constitute a breach of the law. According to Hon, military officers are not bound to obey illegal or manifestly unjust orders, as established by the Supreme Court in Onunze v. State (2023) and Nigeria Air Force v. James (2002). Hon emphasized that no service law permits a serving military officer to mount guard at a private construction site, especially under suspicious circumstances.
This incident raises questions about the use of military personnel in civilian matters and the limits of obedience to superior orders. Hon’s stance suggests that Yerima’s actions may have crossed a legal line, and the incident may have far-reaching implications for the military and civilian authorities.
The incident is likely to spark further debate about the role of the military in maintaining law and order in Nigeria. As the situation unfolds, it will be important to consider the legal and constitutional implications of Yerima’s actions and the potential consequences for those involved.
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