Former Anambra State Governor and 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has denied reports attributing to him a call for Nigerian soldiers to reject any salary increase until after the 2027 general elections.
Obi described the report as false and misleading, stressing that he holds members of the nation’s security forces, particularly personnel of the Nigerian Army, in high regard for their sacrifices and commitment to protecting the country.
He made the clarification on Tuesday in a statement posted on his official Facebook page, saying he had never asked soldiers to reject salary increases or delay improved remuneration until after the elections.
The former presidential candidate said he had consistently advocated adequate equipment, motivation and protection for security personnel, adding that his concern for the welfare of soldiers had been demonstrated on several occasions.
He cited the loss of soldiers to insurgents following a delayed rescue effort as one of the incidents that had heightened his concerns, questioning why those defending the country should be left vulnerable when they themselves needed protection.
Obi further said that if elected president, the welfare, resources, safety and dignity of Nigerian soldiers would be among the priorities of his administration.
According to him, personnel responsible for the nation’s security should never be treated as a secondary concern but should receive the respect, support and resources required to perform their duties effectively.
He also pledged that under his leadership, situations in which servicemen and women are left unprotected in the face of danger would be eliminated.
Obi urged Nigerians to disregard the report, describing it as an attempt to misrepresent his position on the welfare and remuneration of security personnel.
He reaffirmed his commitment to presenting what he described as a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria, insisting that the realisation of a “new and secure Nigeria” is possible.