society

ALLEGATIONS OF MASS RESIGNATION OF NIGERIAN ARMY SOLDIERS DUE TO CORRUPTION IS BASELESS, IRRATIONAL

Published

8 months ago

September 8, 2024

*INSINUATION OF MASS RESIGNATION OF NIGERIAN ARMY SOLDIERS DUE TO CORRUPTION IS BASELESS, IRRATIONAL

The recent publication by Sahara Reporters and similar media platforms, alleging mass resignation of Nigerian Army soldiers over corruption, low morale and the like is not only misleading, but also a deliberate attempt to sew the seeds of disaffection and acrimony, as well as denigrate the patriotic service of personnel and reputation of the Nigerian Army. Consequently, it is crucial to clarify that service in the Nigerian Army, like most militaries the world over, is voluntary and not conscriptive. This, therefore, provides that individuals are free and at liberty to disengage at will. The situation is the same as the Nigerian Army. Personnel are at liberty to disengage from time to time in accordance with laid down procedures as contained in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (Officers/Soldiers) alike.

Discharge from the Nigerian Army is routine and in line with laid down procedures. Only in an unorganised army would the discharge of personnel be handled haphazardly; hence, the compilation and release of names routinely, as must have been observed in the case of the Nigerian Army over the years. This process allows for personnel who are about to either mandatorily or voluntarily disengage to adequately prepare and process entitlements, emoluments, pensions, and gratuity for the period of service to the nation.

In the instance cited in the hasty and haphazardly compiled report, due diligence was not taken to ascertain reasons for the discharge of the personnel, other than the spurious allegation of low morale and corruption. Whereas reasons for the discharge of personnel are confidential, they range from voluntary disengagements, medical grounds, pursuit of other professions of interest and endeavours, and community service, amongst others. The notion that soldiers are resigning enmasse due to welfare issues is a gross misrepresentation of reality and certainly not the true picture. Instead, Nigerian Army recruitments are highly competitive and even over subscribed.

Contrary to the insinuations in the report, Nigerian Army personnel are highly motivated, and their welfare is top priority under the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja. Suffice to state that within one year of the current leadership, significant strides have been made to improve the standards of living and the overall well-being of personnel and their families. A prime example is the Affordable Housing Option for All Soldiers Scheme, aka AHOOAS, which has been launched across the nation, allowing personnel to choose where to live and own decent post service accommodation. This initiative underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring that personnel enjoy dignified post-service life.

Furthermore, the NA is currently undertaking massive rehabilitation of existing and construction of new infrastructure across Nigerian Army formations, units, and barracks in the country to ensure conducive working and living atmosphere for troops and their families. Additionally, allowances have been regularly paid as at when due for soldiers deployed in operational theaters. This is aside the regular free airliftng of troops proceeding on leaves and passes, as well as free medical evacuation of injured troops for both local and foreign treatments. Military hospitals and medical centres are equally receiving remodeling and upgrading of equipment for efficient service delivery to personnel and their families. These are in addition to combat enablers injected into all theatres of operations across the country to enhance troops’ operational effectiveness and ensure adequate force protection. Personnel capacity development is also receiving adequate attention, as both officers and soldiers are engaged regularly in training activities to build their capabilities in consonance with global best practice.

In light of these phenomenal efforts, one cannot but assert that the leadership of the NA has continued to steadily and consistently walk the talk, as pledged in the COAS Command philosophy to “Transform the Nigerian Army into a well trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment”.

Therefore, the allegation of widespread resignation due to poor welfare is not only unfounded but also irrational. The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare of its personnel. It is, however, appalling to witness concerted attempts to distort the truth for sensationalism in the media.

We call on media organizations to verify information before publication and avoid being tools of disinformation. The Nigerian Army will continue to prioritize the welfare and morale of its personnel, ensuring they remain motivated and fully equipped to carry out their duties in defense of the nation.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director
Army Public Relations
8 September 2024

society

Blood in the Bush: Man Butchers 14-Year-Old Girl in Abia Over Rejected Rape Attempt, Police Accused of Extortion

Published

4 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Blood in the Bush: Man Butchers 14-Year-Old Girl in Abia Over Rejected Rape Attempt, Police Accused of Extortion

A 14-year-old girl, Felicia Anaba, is in a coma at an undisclosed hospital in Abia State after she was macheted by a 33-year-old man, Chinazum Nwaubani, who allegedly attacked her in the bush for resisting his attempt to rape her.

The horrifying attack occurred in Obete Nchina village, Ntighauzo community, Obingwa Local Government Area, where Felicia and her twin brother had gone to fetch firewood. According to witnesses, the suspect approached the girl, demanded sex, and upon rejection, inflicted deep machete wounds on her head, leg, and arm before fleeing the scene. Her twin brother escaped and raised the alarm, leading villagers to find Felicia unconscious and soaked in blood.

Her father, Mr. Chijioke Anaba, has raised serious allegations against the Eastern Ngwa Police Division, claiming officers there demanded ₦30,000 before registering the case. “My daughter was unconscious and bleeding to death, and the police still wanted money before doing their job,” he said. “They told me the attacker might be mentally unstable — that’s false. He lives among us and is fully aware of his actions.”

The suspect, who is from the same village as the victim, has since been arrested. However, the family fears he may be released under claims of mental illness.

The Abia State Police Command has acknowledged the arrest but strongly denied any bribe demand. Police spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the Command has not received a formal complaint about the extortion and urged anyone with proof to come forward.

She confirmed the suspect attacked the twins, stating: “He ordered the girl to undress, and when she refused, he attacked her with a machete.” Police say investigations are ongoing, and the victim is receiving medical attention.

Mr. Anaba has appealed to the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, to intervene and ensure justice is served, warning that his daughter may suffer permanent disability. “This is not just an assault. It was a murder attempt. If nothing is done, this man could strike again.”

The incident has reignited concerns over police corruption and the safety of young girls in rural communities, with residents demanding accountability and swift justice. The public is watching closely to see whether the system will punish a would-be rapist — or protect him.

society

ZAMFARA WOMAN FACES DEATH PENALTY FRIDAY FOR CONVERTING TO CHRISTIANITY

Published

4 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Sahara Weekly

ZAMFARA WOMAN FACES DEATH PENALTY FRIDAY FOR CONVERTING TO CHRISTIANITY

A wave of national outrage is building as 22-year-old Zainab Muhamadu prepares to face trial this Friday in a Zamfara Sharia Court for one reason: she left Islam and embraced Christianity.

Zainab’s alleged crime, apostasy, has stirred fierce debate across the country and beyond, with legal experts, human rights defenders, and religious communities warning that Nigeria is teetering on the edge of a full-blown constitutional crisis. Family sources say her ordeal began after she encountered Pastor Samuel, an NYSC member deployed to her community, whose kindness and open sharing of his Christian faith deeply impacted her. The two formed a spiritual bond that would ultimately change—and now threaten—her life.

Her decision to convert sparked immediate backlash. She was arrested by local authorities and is now facing trial under Sharia law, where apostasy is treated as a capital offence. Yet Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the right to change one’s faith. Rights advocates argue that her prosecution violates that very principle.

“This is not just a case about Zainab,” said a human rights lawyer in Yola. “It’s a brutal referendum on Nigeria’s commitment to protect freedom of belief. If she dies for this, it won’t just be her blood on the ground—it will stain the conscience of the nation.”

Calls are mounting for urgent intervention, as fears grow that Zainab’s right to a fair and impartial trial may be compromised in a judicial system heavily influenced by religious authorities. Legal teams are urgently working to have her case moved to a secular court, asserting that she should not be tried under Islamic law for a faith she no longer professes.

At the heart of the storm, Pastor Samuel is said to be under immense emotional and spiritual distress. Supporters are demanding protection for him amid rising tensions and threats.

Zainab’s case is not isolated—it is the chilling face of a wider clash between constitutional democracy and theocratic enforcement. As the clock ticks toward Friday, her life—and Nigeria’s moral standing—hang in the balance.

society

RAINFALL BREAKS PRISON WALL IN ILESA, SEVEN INMATES ESCAPE

Published

4 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Sahara Weekly

RAINFALL BREAKS PRISON WALL IN ILESA, SEVEN INMATES ESCAPE

An overnight downpour on Tuesday triggered the collapse of the perimeter wall at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, allowing seven inmates to escape under the cover of darkness.

According to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), the breach occurred around 2:00 a.m. as a result of structural failure caused by the heavy rain. The incident adds to a growing list of jailbreaks in Nigeria linked to poor infrastructure and extreme weather.

In a statement released by the NCoS spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, authorities have launched a manhunt for the escapees and are working with other security agencies and local community leaders to bring them back into custody. The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident and assured the public that all efforts are being made to recapture the fugitives.

The service is also appealing to the public for information that could help in locating the escapees. Citizens are urged to contact the nearest security agency or use the hotlines: 07087086005, 09060004598, or 08075050006.

This is the third major prison break in less than a year caused by adverse weather and failing infrastructure. In September 2024, a flood-induced wall collapse in Maiduguri led to the escape of 281 inmates, while in April 2024, rains in Suleja caused a similar breach that allowed 119 inmates to flee.

As security agencies intensify their search, Tuesday’s escape further underscores the urgent need to overhaul Nigeria’s aging and vulnerable correctional facilities.