No assassination attempt on Yerima – Police

The Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, says there was no attack or assassination attempt on Lt. Ahmed Yerima as reported in some sections of the media.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Our correspondent reports that Yerima is the Naval Officer who recently had an altercation with the FCT Minster, Mr Nyesom Wike.

Adeh described the publications as false and grossly misleading, adding that Yerima was only stopped by police personnel on a stop-and-search operation at NNPC Junction along Kubwa Expressway.

“On Nov. 16, at about 6:15 p.m., a police patrol team, while conducting a routine stop-and-search operation at NNPC Junction along Kubwa Expressway, intercepted an ash-coloured Toyota Camry.

“The car was driven 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,” she said.

According to her, the occupant refused to identify himself, proceeded to make several calls, wound up his tinted windows, and declined to engage with the police team.

She said a few minutes later, three naval personnel arrived at the location and cordially identified the occupant of the vehicle 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 while 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,” she said.

Adeh said the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the FCT, Mr Miller Dantawaye called on the public to always cooperate with police officers in the discharge of their lawful duty.

The CP enjoined the public to shun peddling of fake and unverified news capable of creating fear and apprehension in the FCT.