Former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has denied reports that he asked Nigerian soldiers to reject the salary increase recently approved by President Bola Tinubu.
Obi described the report as false and urged Nigerians to disregard it.
He made the clarification in a statement shared on his X handle on Tuesday.
“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,” Obi said.
Tinubu had approved salary increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for personnel of the Armed Forces, with the new rates expected to take effect from September 1, 2026.
According to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the adjustment is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel and increase the annual salary bill for the Armed Forces from N660bn to N924bn.
Obi said his position on the welfare of security personnel had remained consistent, stressing that he had always advocated better equipment, motivation and protection for members of the security forces.
“My profound respect for our security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army personnel who diligently serve and protect our nation under challenging conditions, is unwavering.
“I have consistently advocated for the adequate provision of equipment, motivation, and protection for our security personnel,” he said.
The former governor also recalled an incident in which soldiers were killed by insurgents, saying the development raised concerns about the protection available to troops operating in dangerous areas.
“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.
Obi pledged to make the welfare and safety of security personnel a priority if elected president.
“Should I be elected President, the well-being, resources, safety, and honour of our soldiers will be a paramount priority,” he said.
He further promised that military personnel would receive stronger protection while carrying out their duties.
“Under my leadership, scenarios where our servicemen and women are left unprotected in the face of peril will be eradicated,” Obi added.
He urged Nigerians to disregard the report linking him to a call for soldiers to reject the salary increase.
“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,” he said.
