The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations by a former soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, that personnel purchase their uniforms and protective equipment with personal funds.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, the Army described the claims as false and misleading, insisting that troops are adequately equipped and catered for.

The statement was in response to a viral interview in which Olamilekan, popularly known as Soja Boi, alleged that soldiers buy items such as uniforms, boots and bulletproof vests despite earning modest salaries.

On remuneration, the Army maintained that it operates a structured and transparent salary system, with additional benefits for personnel.

“In addition to consolidated monthly salaries, personnel are entitled to uniform allowances and other allowances, which are periodically paid directly into their accounts,” it said.

The Army also noted that troops deployed for operations receive extra support.

“Personnel serving in operational theatres… are also paid operational allowances and other mission-specific entitlements designed to support their welfare and enhance operational effectiveness,” the statement added.

Addressing the core allegation, the Army rejected claims that soldiers procure their own kits and protective gear.

“The claim that soldiers are required to purchase uniforms and protective equipment, including bulletproof vests and helmets, is entirely false. The provision of uniforms, kits, arms, ammunition, and operational gear is an institutional responsibility executed through established logistics systems,” it stated.

It acknowledged that some personnel may choose to supplement issued kits for personal comfort but stressed that such decisions are voluntary.

“While some personnel may choose to supplement issued kits based on personal preference and comfort, such actions are voluntary and do not indicate any systemic failure,” the Army said.

The statement further emphasised that no soldier is deployed without adequate protection.

“For the avoidance of doubt, no soldier is deployed to an operational theatre without the necessary protective equipment,” it added.

The Army urged the public to disregard the allegations, warning that such claims could undermine morale and national security.

“The public is requested to disregard these baseless allegations… Citizens are urged to refrain from amplifying unverified claims that may undermine these institutions,” the statement said.

Reacting, the Army said the former lance corporal was dismissed over disciplinary breaches and not for expressing his views.

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

It added that his actions, including unauthorised media appearances and misuse of military identity, contravened established regulations.

Olamilekan had earlier claimed in an interview that soldiers earned between N51,000 and N111,000 and were responsible for purchasing essential gear, sparking widespread reactions online. (The PUNCH)

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