Military leadership rejects viral video claims
The Headquarters of the 35 Artillery Brigade in Abeokuta has dismissed allegations of non-payment of allowances and extortion by soldiers deployed in Ogun State.
In a statement released on Monday, January 5, 2026, the military described the claims as “false, malicious, and misleading.” The rebuttal follows a viral video circulating on social media, authored by an individual identified as Abdul, who accused the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba, of withholding entitlements.
According to reports from Vanguard Nigeria, the Army clarified that troops operating in the state are part of Operation MESA, a multi-agency security initiative. The statement, signed by Major Idereghi Samuel Akari, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 35 Artillery Brigade, emphasized that welfare remains a top priority. The Army noted that the allegations were designed to incite public sympathy through the dissemination of “unfounded narratives.”
The military further disclosed that the individual behind the video is a disgruntled retired airman with a history of attempting to discredit senior officers. This “propaganda” is viewed as an effort to attract social media attention at the expense of the Nigerian Army’s reputation. The Brigade has reaffirmed its commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in its operations across Ogun State.
Allowance review and state government funding
Contrary to the claims of non-payment, the 35 Artillery Brigade revealed that allowances for personnel under Operation MESA have actually seen a significant increase. Before Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba assumed command in January 2025, personnel received a monthly allowance of ₦45,000. Upon his arrival, the Commander approved an upward review to ₦60,000 per soldier in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of “sound administration.”
The Army confirmed that these allowances are funded and paid regularly by the Ogun State Government without any delays. The statement maintained that there is no truth to the assertion that the Brigade leadership has diverted funds meant for the troops. This transparency is intended to reassure both the personnel on the field and the general public of the integrity of the military payroll system.
The Ogun State Government continues to support the operation as part of its broader strategy to safeguard lives and property in the gateway state. Major Akari stated that the partnership between the military and the state government remains robust and focused on results. The upward review of the monthly stipend was specifically intended to boost the morale of the troops during their “company duties.”
Zero tolerance for extortion at border corridors
Addressing the secondary allegation of extortion, the Nigerian Army categorically denied that its troops engage in the illegal collection of money from motorists. The Brigade emphasized that a “zero-tolerance policy” for indiscipline and unethical conduct is strictly enforced across all units. No credible complaint has been filed against any personnel regarding extortion along the border routes or major highways in the state.
In compliance with recent directives from Defence and Army Headquarters, all “unnecessary checkpoints” along the border areas have been dismantled. This move was intended to facilitate the free flow of movement while leaving only relevant security agencies to conduct necessary vehicle checks. The Army believes that this structural change has further reduced the opportunities for any form of harassment of the civilian population.
The 35 Artillery Brigade urged members of the public to disregard the viral video and continue to support the security agencies. They maintained that the “security architecture” of Ogun State is designed to be citizen-friendly and professional. Any soldier found wanting in their conduct will face immediate disciplinary action according to the Armed Forces Act.
Reaffirming commitment to Ogun State security
The Nigerian Army has reassured the residents of Ogun State that it will remain resolute in its constitutional duty to provide security. The 35 Artillery Brigade will continue to collaborate with the Police, the NSCDC, and other stakeholders to maintain the peace. Major Akari noted that the “malicious” video would not distract the troops from their primary mission of neutralizing criminal elements.
The leadership of the Brigade expressed gratitude to the law-abiding citizens of the state for their continued cooperation and intelligence sharing. They noted that the “unity of purpose” between the military and the community is the greatest weapon against those seeking to cause instability. As 2026 progresses, the Army plans to launch even more “proactive measures” to secure the border corridors.
With the AFCON tournament and other regional activities ongoing, the military remains on high alert to prevent any spillover of insecurity. The Army has promised to maintain an open channel of communication with the media to ensure that “accurate information” reaches the public. The statement concluded by warning social media influencers against being used as “tools for destabilization.”
