By Sarah NEGEDU
Police in the FCT have clarified that the incident reported as an assassination attempt on Lt. AM Yerima, was a mere stop-and-search operation that was falsely misrepresented on social media.
Reports of the alleged attack had circulated on Sunday evening, claiming that the naval officer was trailed by three black unmarked Hilux trucks while driving through Abuja, sparking fear and speculation online.
But the FCT Police Command, in a statement on Monday morning, explained that no such attempt occurred, as police officers on duty around the busy NNPC Junction in Kubwa only requested to see documents for the tinted vehicle being driven by the naval officer.
The statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Josephine Adeh, reads “The attention of FCT Police Command has been drawn to publications by an Instagram blogger, ‘Mazitundeednut,’ alleging an attack on one Lt. Ahmed Yerima at NNPC junction in Kubwa area of the FCT. FCT Police Command wishes to state that these publications are false and grossly misleading,” the statement read.
According to the police, on 16th November 2025, at about 6:15 p.m., a patrol team conducting a routine stop-and-search operation at NNPC Junction along Kubwa Expressway intercepted an ash-coloured Toyota Camry with a concealed number plate and fully tinted windows.
“In line with standard operational procedure, officers approached the vehicle and politely requested for the occupant’s identity, along with an explanation for the concealments. The occupant, however, refused to identify himself, proceeded to make several calls, and wound up his tinted windows, declining to engage with the police team.
“A few minutes later, three naval personnel arrived at the scene and cordially identified the occupant as their colleague. They were also observed taking video and picture footage of the encounter before leaving. Following this confirmation, the Police team allowed the vehicle to proceed. The patrol team then continued its operations peacefully and without any further incident.
“It is however surprising to wake up to maliciously crafted tales and worst of all allegations of assassination.” the statement added.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Miller Dantawaye, called on residents and visitors to always cooperate with officers in the discharge of their lawful duties and stressed the need to shun peddling of fake and unverified news capable of creating fear and apprehension in society.
