The Nigerian Army has given reasons for Thursday’s retirement of some senior officers within the ranks of Major Generals, Brigadier Generals, Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels and a Major.

Their retirement, according to a statement issued last night by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, was based on “service exigencies.”

Giving more details, he said: “It should be recalled that not too long ago some officers were investigated for being partisan during the 2015 General Elections.

“Similarly, the investigation by the Presidential Committee investigating Defence Contracts revealed a lot. Some officers have already been arraigned in court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).”

The Army spokesman appealed to the public not to read the retirement out of context as the military must remain apolitical and professional at all times. “We must applaud and support this laudable and bold initiative by the government,” he stressed.

•Photo shows Army Spokesman, Col. Sani Usman.