Nigerian Army Dismisses Mutiny Claims as ‘False Alarm’

By Zainab Uzomah

The Nigerian Army has strongly rejected an online report alleging that soldiers are threatening mutiny over salaries and allowances, describing the publication as unfounded, misleading and a deliberate attempt to sow distrust within the ranks.

In a statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, and issued on Monday, the Army said the report by Sahara Reporters was based on “anonymous and unverifiable claims” and bore no resemblance to the reality within the service. It insisted that no threat of mutiny has arisen at any time, stressing that such an act remains a grave offence under military law and runs contrary to the discipline, professionalism and constitutional loyalty expected of Nigerian soldiers.

According to the statement, soldiers are trained to address grievances through established military channels, not through public platforms or third-party narratives. It added that the claims misrepresented military remuneration, noting that promotion increments form only one part of a broader pay structure that includes consolidated salaries, rank-based allowances, operational and field allowances, hardship payments and other entitlements tied to deployment and responsibility.

Army authorities said ongoing welfare reforms are being implemented in collaboration with the Armed Forces leadership and relevant government agencies, covering periodic salary reviews, enhanced operational allowances, improved accommodation, medical services and insurance for personnel and their families. These measures, the statement said, continue to receive support from the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Chief of Army Staff has also engaged with appropriate authorities on troop welfare since assuming office, with the Army saying such efforts are already yielding positive results.

The Army described attempts to portray the institution as unstable or poorly managed as “irresponsible” and warned that such reporting threatens national security. It urged the public to disregard the allegations and rely on official channels for credible information.