Atiku Dismisses Viral Claim of Gifting SUV to Soldier in Wike Confrontation

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly denied reports circulating online that he gifted a Toyota SUV to Lt. Ahmed Yerima, the soldier who recently clashed with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike in a widely shared video.

The rumor, which gained momentum across social media, suggested that Atiku rewarded the officer for his defiance during the confrontation over a disputed property. However, Atiku’s media team has now dismissed the story as completely false.

In a statement released on Thursday by his spokesperson, Paul Ibe, Atiku made it clear that he had no connection to the alleged gift. “For the avoidance of doubt, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007), did not gift Lt. Ahmed Yerima or any other individual a brand new Toyota SUV, contrary to the false reports currently circulating on social media,” Ibe stated.

He described the claim as a fabrication and urged Nigerians to ignore it entirely. The statement also warned against the spread of misinformation designed to mislead the public and damage reputations.

The viral story emerged in the wake of Lt. Yerima’s confrontation with Wike, which drew national attention. Despite the buzz, Atiku’s camp emphasized that the former Vice President had no involvement in the incident or any subsequent actions related to it.