“Not All Orders Are Lawful” – Wike’s Aide Defends FCT Minister After Clash With Naval Officer

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Publicity and Communications to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has defended his boss following a viral confrontation with Naval Officer A.M. Yarima in Abuja.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Olayinka emphasized that not every order from a superior officer should be obeyed. He clarified that only lawful instructions must be executed, stressing that discipline within the armed forces should never override the law.

“Not all orders are meant to be obeyed because they come from your superior. Only lawful orders should be carried out,” he said.

The comments came after Tuesday’s heated face-off between Wike and naval officers at a disputed construction site in Abuja.

The FCT Minister had led officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to halt what he described as illegal construction, but military personnel guarding the area reportedly resisted, resulting in a tense standoff captured on video.

Olayinka’s statements have since ignited widespread debate on social media, with users expressing contrasting opinions.

Some criticized his remarks, questioning the logic of obeying or disobeying orders, while others highlighted the importance of legality in leadership and accountability.