The Nigerian Army Headquarters has officially dismissed reports of a planned mutiny within its ranks, describing the claims as a “false alarm” intended to undermine national security.
The rebuttal follows an online publication alleging that soldiers were threatening to revolt over poor salaries, inadequate allowances, and general welfare conditions.
In a statement titled, “Threats of Mutiny: A False Alarm – Nigerian Army Committed to Troop Welfare, Discipline,” the Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, clarified that the force remains loyal and disciplined.
“Mutiny is Alien to Our Ethos”
Col. Anele emphasized that the Nigerian Army views the report as a deliberate attempt to create public distrust. She reiterated that the military operates under a strict code of conduct where such actions are considered grave offenses.
“At no time has there been any threat of mutiny within the Nigerian Army. Mutiny is a grave offence under military law and alien to the ethos, discipline and professionalism of Nigerian Army personnel, who remain loyal to the Constitution… and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” the statement read.
The Army further criticized the source of the news, noting that it relied on “anonymous, unverifiable claims” rather than official military communication channels.
Clarifying Military Remuneration
Addressing the specific grievances mentioned in the reports—primarily regarding pay—the Army explained that military compensation is a multi-layered structure that goes beyond basic promotion increments.
According to the statement:
- Total Earnings: Military pay consists of consolidated salaries plus rank-based, operational, field, and hardship allowances.
- Welfare Reforms: The Army is currently collaborating with government authorities to implement structured reforms, including periodic salary reviews and improved medical care.
- New Initiatives: Since assuming office, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has initiated “positive engagements” with the federal government to further enhance troop welfare.
Commitment to National Security
The military leadership reaffirmed its confidence in the current administration’s support. Col. Anele noted that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has shown a consistent commitment to the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
“The Nigerian Army remains a cohesive, disciplined and professional force, fully focused on its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty… Attempts to portray the institution as unstable or lawless are not only irresponsible but also detrimental to national security.”The statement concluded by urging the public to disregard “unfounded reports” and rely solely on official channels for information regarding the Nigerian Army.
