Rotimi Olamilekan, a dismissed Lance Corporal popularly known as Soja Boi, has challenged the Nigerian Army to make its payroll public. This bold move follows a deepening controversy over the welfare and remuneration of active-duty soldiers across the federation.
Olamilekan released a video on Tuesday to counter the military’s claim that his previous allegations were false and misleading. He insisted that the public deserves to know the true financial state of the men and women serving the country.
Soja Boi presents bank alerts as evidence of earnings
In his latest video, the former soldier displayed several bank transaction alerts which he claimed represent his actual earnings while in service. He identified a monthly salary of N112,061.59 and a N20,000 payment he described as a “grumbling allowance.”
He also pointed to a N45,000 operational allowance and a N6,000 security allowance. Olamilekan explained that these specific payments only go to soldiers deployed to active combat zones like Maiduguri.
Discrepancies in operational allowances and kit provision
The dismissed soldier noted that personnel not deployed to active operations receive only their basic salary and the N20,000 allowance. He emphasized that operational allowances are not a standing entitlement for every member of the force.
Furthermore, Olamilekan alleged that many soldiers are forced to purchase their own protective gear with personal funds. He claimed that items such as helmets and fragmentation jackets are often not provided through official channels.
Nigerian Army denies allegations of welfare neglect
The Nigerian Army previously dismissed Olamilekan’s claims, labeling them as baseless and an attempt to tarnish the military’s image. Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anaele, maintained that the force issues all necessary kits and arms to its personnel.
The Army stated that its established logistics system ensures no soldier goes into the field without adequate protection. They also clarified that personnel receive consolidated salaries and mission-specific entitlements directly into their bank accounts.
Controversy surrounds the grounds for Olamilekan’s dismissal
Military authorities have clarified that Olamilekan was not dismissed because of the content of his viral videos. They cited persistent acts of indiscipline as the primary reason for his exit from the force.
According to the Army, he repeatedly violated the Armed Forces Social Media Policy and made unauthorized media appearances. Olamilekan, however, maintains that he is simply a whistleblower speaking the truth about the realities of military life.
