Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has denied reports that he asked members of the Nigerian military to reject any salary increase until after the 2027 general election.
Obi described the report as false and misleading, saying it misrepresented his position on the welfare and remuneration of security personnel.
The former Anambra State governor made the clarification in a statement posted on his official X account on Tuesday.
“I Never Said Military Should Reject Salary Increase,” Obi said, urging Nigerians to disregard the report.
“I wish to address a recent report that falsely attributes a statement to me, suggesting that Nigerian soldiers should refuse any salary increments until after the elections. This assertion is entirely untrue,” he said.
Obi says military welfare remains a priority
Obi said he had consistently advocated improved welfare, adequate equipment and better protection for members of the security forces, particularly soldiers serving in difficult and dangerous conditions.
He expressed his respect for members of the Nigerian military and other security agencies responsible for protecting the country.
“My profound respect for our security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army personnel who diligently serve and protect our nation under challenging conditions, is unwavering,” he said.
The former governor said his concerns about the welfare and safety of soldiers were informed by previous incidents in which military personnel lost their lives during security operations.
Obi recalls soldiers lost during security operation
Obi recalled an incident involving the death of soldiers during an operation against insurgents, saying he had questioned the circumstances surrounding what he described as a delayed rescue effort.
“My concern was palpable when soldiers were lost to insurgents due to a delayed rescue effort, prompting me to question how those defending us could be left vulnerable in their time of need,” he said.
He maintained that raising concerns about the conditions under which soldiers operate should not be interpreted as opposition to improved salaries or remuneration for members of the armed forces.
2027: Obi promises better support for soldiers
Obi further pledged that the welfare, safety and operational capacity of military personnel would receive priority if he wins the 2027 presidential election.
“Should I be elected President, the well-being, resources, safety, and honour of our soldiers will be a paramount priority,” he said.
He added that security personnel deserved the full backing of the government because they are responsible for protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.
According to Obi, those entrusted with defending the country “must never be relegated to a secondary concern.”
Obi urges Nigerians to disregard report
The NDC presidential candidate urged Nigerians to dismiss the report linking him to a call for soldiers to reject salary increases before the 2027 election.
He described the report as misleading and reaffirmed his commitment to presenting what he called a clear vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
“I implore the Nigerian populace to dismiss this misleading report. I remain committed to articulating a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria,” Obi said.