JUST IN: Nigerian Army reacts to viral interview by dismissed soldier, says allegations misleading

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The Nigerian Army has dismissed claims made by Rotimi Olamilekan, a former lance corporal popularly known as “Soja Boi,” describing them as false and misleading.

In a statement released on April 7, the Army’s spokesperson, ColoAppolonia Anele, clarified that Olamilekan was dismissed due to persistent indiscipline and repeated violations of military regulations, not for “speaking the truth” or expressing political opinions.

“The Nigerian Army categorically states that Mr. Olamilekan was not dismissed for ‘speaking the truth’ or expressing opinions on political leadership,” part of the statement read. “He was dismissed following persistent and grave acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy.”

The Army outlined that unauthorised media appearances, commercialisation of military identity, creation of partisan content, and misuse of military uniform constitute breaches of regulations.

Addressing Olamilekan’s claims about soldiers’ remuneration, the Army affirmed that its salary structure is transparent and based on rank and years of service, as stipulated in the Manual of Financial Administration for Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA). It further stated that personnel receive uniform allowances, operational allowances, and other entitlements directly into their accounts.

The Army also refuted assertions that soldiers are required to purchase their own uniforms or protective equipment. “Uniforms, kits, arms, ammunition, and operational gear are issued through established logistics systems overseen by ordnance units,” the statement said.

“For the avoidance of doubt, no soldier is deployed to an operational theatre without the necessary protective equipment,” the Army added, describing claims that gear is only issued during ceremonial visits as “deliberate falsehoods.”

The statement concluded by urging the public to disregard the allegations, emphasizing that they are intended to misinform and generate unwarranted sympathy.