Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, has dismissed as “entirely untrue” reports that he called on members of the armed forces to turn down the salary increase recently approved by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor urged Nigerians to disregard the claim, describing it as a misrepresentation of his position.
Tinubu Approves 30–80% Pay Hike for Military
President Tinubu had earlier approved salary increments ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for armed forces personnel, effective 1 September 2026. The new pay package, expected to benefit approximately 250,000 service members, will raise the military’s annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, according to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Obi: Welfare of Soldiers a Paramount Priority
Reacting to the false attribution, Obi reaffirmed his unwavering respect for Nigeria’s security forces and reiterated his consistent advocacy for better equipment, motivation, and protection for troops.
“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.
He recalled a past incident in which soldiers lost their lives to insurgents following a delayed rescue effort, which had prompted him to question how those defending the nation could be left exposed in their hour of need.
A Pledge Under His Leadership
Obi went further to state that, should he be elected President, the well-being, resources, safety, and honour of soldiers would be a paramount priority.
“Those who ensure Nigeria’s security must never be relegated to a secondary concern. Our soldiers are deserving of our utmost respect, unwavering support, and a government that will unequivocally stand by them,” he said.
He pledged that under his leadership, no serviceman or woman would be left unprotected in dangerous situations.
Call to Disregard Misleading Reports
Concluding his statement, Obi implored the Nigerian public to dismiss the misleading report and reaffirmed his commitment to articulating a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.