Ex-Soldier Olamilekan Violated Social Media Policy – Army

The Nigerian Army has said Ex-18NA/77/1009 Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi” was dismissed over persistent and grave acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy.

This contradicts his claims that he was dismissed for speaking the truth or for expressing opinions about the country’s political leadership.

Olamilekan had, in an interview, revealed unsettling information concerning troops’ welfare, remuneration and the provision of uniforms and protective equipment for Nigerian Army personnel.

But the acting director of Army Public Relations, Col Appolonia Anele, responded that the Nigerian Army operates under a strict Code of Conduct and the Armed Forces Act.

“The Nigerian Army categorically states that Mr Olamilekan was not dismissed for “speaking the truth” or expressing opinions on political leadership.

“He was dismissed following persistent and grave acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy.

“Unauthorised media appearances, commercialisation of military identity, partisan content creation and misuse of military uniforms constitute clear breaches of established regulations. His dismissal followed due process and in line with military laws,” she added.

Regarding allegations of poor remuneration, Col. Anele said the Nigerian Army operates a well-structured, transparent salary system in which earnings are determined by rank and years of service, as clearly stipulated in the Manual of Financial Administration for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA).

Anele explained that in addition to consolidated monthly salaries, Nigerian military personnel are entitled to uniform allowances and other allowances, which are periodically paid directly into their accounts.

She stated that troops deployed on operations or assigned to duties outside their units receive Ration Cash Allowance, Habit Allowance, in addition to free feeding arrangements.

Col. Anele added that personnel serving in operational theatres, such as “Operation HADIN KAI” in the North East, are also paid operational allowances and other mission-specific entitlements designed to support their welfare and enhance operational effectiveness.

She lamented that the portrayal of soldiers receiving no additional benefits beyond their basic salary is, therefore, misleading and inaccurate.

“The claim that soldiers are required to purchase uniforms and protective equipment, including bulletproof vests and helmets, is entirely false,” Anele said.

According to the Army spokesperson, contrary to Mr Olamilekan’s claims, the Nigerian Army prioritises the welfare, safety and force protection of its personnel.