LIEUTENANT A. M. YERIMA: A symbol of courage in the face of intimidation
By LAURETTA ONOCHIE
“We cannot forget how Wike led Tinubu by the nose and not only humiliated the entire people of Rivers State, but desecrated the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This led to the silent mass exodus from the ruling party, of decent men and women who like Yerima, were properly brought up to know right from wrong.”
In times when fear grips a nation and intimidation becomes the language of governance, courage stands out as a shining light of hope. Nigeria today finds herself under the heavy weight of suppression, as voices of dissent are silenced and citizens are bullied into submission. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aided by his Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has too often chosen intimidation over inclusion, and coercion over consultation.
We cannot forget how Wike led Tinubu by the nose and not only humiliated the entire people of Rivers State, but desecrated the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This led to the silent mass exodus from the ruling party, of decent men and women who like Yerima, were properly brought up to know right from wrong.
But in the midst of this climate of fear, one man—a young military officer, Lieutenant A. M. Yerima—has rekindled the spirit of bravery and dignity that defines true service to the nation. When faced with Nyesom Wike’s trademark arrogance and attempt at bullying, Lieutenant Yerima did not cower, did not retreat, and did not compromise his dignity. With measured firmness and unflinching respect, he stood his ground.
That single act may have seemed small to some, but in truth, it was monumental. It reminded Nigerians that courage does not always roar; sometimes it speaks in calm defiance and polite firmness. Lieutenant Yerima showed that strength of character is not found in loud threats or the misuse of power—but in quiet conviction and integrity.
At a time when many public officials bow to intimidation or trade principle for comfort, Yerima’s bravery is a clarion call to all Nigerians. He demonstrated that true power lies not in political office, but in moral courage. His composure and confidence reflected the very essence of gallantry—discipline anchored on truth, and bravery guided by honour.
Every Nigerian, from the uniformed officer to the everyday citizen, must take inspiration from Lieutenant Yerima’s stance. We must learn that it is possible to resist oppression without chaos, to speak truth without insult, and to defend dignity without violence.
Lieutenant Yerima’s action was not just a personal triumph—it was a patriotic statement. He reminded us that our country’s greatness will only be restored when Nigerians, young and old, begin to confront intimidation with courage, and tyranny with truth.
As citizens, we owe him gratitude—not only for his service in uniform, but for his service to our collective conscience. In Lieutenant A. M. Yerima, Nigeria has found a reminder that even in the darkest times, there are still men and women who will not bend the knee to tyranny.
Let every Nigerian emulate his bravery. Let us all, in our various corners, speak and act with the same quiet gallantry. For if we all show just a fraction of Lieutenant Yerima’s courage, no tyrant—no matter how powerful—can ever silence the voice of the Nigerian people.
Lieutenant A. M. Yerima has spoken for all of us. Now it is our turn to stand with him.
God bless Nigeria
Lauretta Ifeanyinosobue Onochie
@Laurestar
