Army Debunks Viral Claims by Ex-Soldier ‘Soja Boi’, Insists Allegations Are False

Army Debunks Viral Claims by Ex-Soldier ‘Soja Boi’, Insists Allegations Are False

The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations made by former lance corporal, Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi,” describing his viral interview as misleading, false, and damaging to national security efforts.

In a statement released on April 7, the Army, through its spokesperson Appolonia Anele, clarified that Olamilekan was dismissed due to repeated acts of indiscipline and violations of military regulations, not for “speaking the truth” or expressing political opinions as claimed in the interview.

According to the Army, the former soldier’s dismissal followed due process and was based on serious misconduct, including breaches of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy. These violations, the military said, involved unauthorised media appearances, commercialisation of military identity, partisan content creation, and misuse of military uniform.

The Army stressed that the narrative being circulated online misrepresents the facts and could undermine public trust in the military, especially amid ongoing Nigeria security challenges.

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Responding to claims about poor welfare, the Army rejected assertions that personnel receive only basic salaries without additional support. It explained that the Nigerian Army salary structure is governed by the Manual of Financial Administration for Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA), which ensures a transparent and structured remuneration system based on rank and years of service.

It added that soldiers are entitled to various benefits, including uniform allowances and service-related entitlements, which are paid directly into their accounts. The Army further noted that personnel deployed in combat zones—such as Operation HADIN KAI—receive operational allowances and mission-specific incentives designed to support their welfare and effectiveness.

The military also debunked claims that troops are forced to purchase their own uniforms and protective equipment, describing such allegations as entirely false. It stated that all necessary kits, including uniforms, weapons, and operational gear, are issued through established logistics systems overseen by ordnance units.

Addressing concerns about troop safety, the Army insisted that no soldier is deployed without adequate protective equipment, including bulletproof vests and helmets. It described claims suggesting otherwise as deliberate misinformation aimed at misleading the public.

The Army warned that spreading unverified information could harm troop morale and national security, urging Nigerians to rely on official sources for accurate updates on military activities.

It concluded by calling on the public to disregard what it termed baseless allegations intended to generate sympathy and discredit the Armed Forces, reiterating its commitment to professionalism, discipline, and the welfare of its personnel.

The development comes as public scrutiny of the military continues to grow, with social media amplifying narratives around military welfare in Nigeria and operational transparency.

Army Debunks Viral Claims by Ex-Soldier ‘Soja Boi’, Insists Allegations Are False