By Aina Shehu
A Nigerian Navy officer, Lieutenant Yerima, has allegedly been involved in a security-related incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, after reportedly bypassing standard civilian screening procedures while carrying a firearm.
According to multiple reports, the officer gained access to the airport through the military wing rather than the designated civilian screening points. He was said to be in possession of a pistol at the time, a move that allegedly contravened established aviation and airport security regulations governing the movement of armed personnel within civilian airport environments.
The situation reportedly drew attention when airport security operatives intercepted the officer for breaching aviation protocols. Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that the development caused tension within the terminal, as concerns were raised over safety, due process, and adherence to aviation security standards.
During the encounter, Lieutenant Yerima allegedly accused ValueJet Airlines of treating him with disrespect, further escalating the incident. The precise nature of the disagreement with the airline remains unclear, but it is believed to be connected to the enforcement of security rules and boarding procedures.
The officer is not new to public attention, having previously been linked to a widely reported confrontation involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. This latest episode has reignited public debate around the conduct of uniformed personnel at civilian facilities and the need for strict compliance with aviation safety regulations, regardless of rank or service affiliation.
As of the time of this report, neither the Nigerian Navy, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), nor ValueJet Airlines has issued an official statement on the incident. However, aviation observers say the matter may prompt internal reviews and possible investigations to determine whether airport security protocols were breached and if disciplinary action is warranted.
The incident has continued to generate reactions on social media, with many Nigerians calling for equal enforcement of airport security rules and accountability for all individuals operating within civilian aviation spaces