The Nigerian Army’s authorities have dismissed allegations that soldiers’ salaries for January 2022 were delayed, causing some grumbling among troops, noting that the reckless allegation is an attempt to incite discontent and stir up sentiment within the force.
“It is an attempt to incite personnel against the institution and cause disaffection in the ranks and, as such, should be categorically rejected,” the Army said.
Brig-Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, stated this in a statement titled ‘Allegation of Delayed Payment of Soldiers’ January Salary Misleading, Inciting’.
“The Nigerian Army (NA) has been notified of a publication alleging that personnel of the Nigerian Army lamented the delay in payment of their January salary, with many being paid peanuts while Generals feed fat,” he said.
This report is not only deceptive but also a grandiose attempt to incite personnel against the Nigerian Army’s established precept of discipline.
For the avoidance of doubt, since taking command, Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya has prioritized the welfare of officers, soldiers, and their families, including ensuring prompt payment of salaries, allowances, and all statutory entitlements to personnel.
“Therefore, the allegation suggesting delay and non-implementation of new salary increase is a reckless falsehood in all its intent and purposes.”
“It must be emphasized that the NA has built a reputation and an unblemished record of timely payment of salaries and allowances over the years.”
Officers and soldiers receive their monthly salaries and allowances on time. Furthermore, if a delay is anticipated, troops are usually communicated through the internal communication mechanism.
“It is thus instructive to state that all salaries and allowances have been paid for the month of January.”
The attempt to incite discontent and incite emotion in response to the unsubstantiated and baseless report that Generals feed fat is a ridiculous frivolity.
“It is an attempt to incite personnel against the institution and cause disaffection in the ranks, and it should therefore be completely rejected.”
The NA would like to urge all credible media outlets to distance themselves from the apparent unprofessional and disgraceful yellow journalism practiced by some media outlets and purveyors of fake news.
“Our troops are in high spirits and would not be deterred by any nefarious submission by agent provocateurs.”
