Peter Obi Denies Asking Nigerian Soldiers to Reject Salary Increase

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has denied reports claiming that he asked Nigerian soldiers to reject salary increases until after the 2027 general elections.

Obi described the report as false, saying his position has always been to ensure that members of the nation’s security forces receive adequate welfare, equipment, protection and motivation.

The former Anambra State governor made the clarification in a statement posted on his X handle, on Tuesday, August 11, urging Nigerians to disregard what he described as a misleading report.

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“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.

He expressed his appreciation for the Nigerian military, particularly soldiers serving under difficult conditions to protect 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.

Obi said he had consistently advocated adequate provision of equipment and other resources for security personnel, while also expressing concern over the circumstances surrounding the deaths of some soldiers in the line of duty.

“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.

The NDC presidential candidate promised to make the welfare and security of military 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.

According to Obi, members of the armed forces deserve the full support of the government because of the risks they face in defending the country.

“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 further pledged that under his leadership, security personnel would not be left exposed 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 said.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the report and said he remained committed to presenting his vision for a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.

TVC News had earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for Nigeria’s armed forces personnel.

About 250,000 personnel are to benefit from the new deal.
Under the new arrangement, which becomes effective from September 1, officers above the rank of colonel will enjoy a 30 per cent salary increase.

This applies to Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals.

Personnel from colonel down to warrant officer will have a 50 per cent increase, while Private to Staff Sergeant will have an 80 per cent increase.

The pay package will increase the yearly salary bill for the country’s armed forces personnel from N660 billion to N924 billion