Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has blasted reports claiming he gifted a Toyota SUV to Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima, the naval officer who clashed with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, during a heated confrontation over a disputed property in Abuja.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Thursday, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, dismissed the viral claim as “completely false” and the work of mischief-makers.
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007), did not gift Lt. Ahmed Yerima — or any other individual — a brand new Toyota SUV, contrary to the false reports currently circulating on social media.
“The story is entirely fabricated and should be completely disregarded by the public,” he said.
The story, which spread rapidly on Facebook on Wednesday, alleged that Atiku rewarded the naval officer for standing up to Wike during an inspection at Plot 1946, Gaduwa District, in the FCT.
A video of the confrontation had shown Wike angrily confronting Yerima, who blocked access to the site, insisting he was acting on behalf of the Nigerian Navy.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions, with several prominent figures, including former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), calling for restraint and respect for institutional authority.
