The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has denied reports claiming that he advised Nigerian soldiers to reject any salary increase until after the 2027 general elections.
Obi, in a statement posted on his Facebook page, described the report as false and urged Nigerians to disregard it.
He said his position had been misrepresented, stressing that he had never asked members of the military to reject salary increments.
“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 former Anambra State governor said his respect for Nigeria’s security forces, particularly personnel of the Nigerian Army, remained unwavering, noting that troops continued to serve the country under difficult circumstances.
He said he had consistently advocated the adequate provision of equipment, motivation and protection for security personnel.
According to him, the welfare and safety of members of the armed forces would remain a major priority if elected president.
“Should I be elected President, the well-being, resources, safety, and honour of our soldiers will be a paramount priority,” Obi said.
He added that those responsible for protecting the country should not be treated as a secondary concern by the government.
“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.
Obi further pledged that under his leadership, situations in which soldiers and other security personnel were left without adequate protection while confronting threats would be eliminated.
He called on the public to dismiss the report, describing it as misleading, while reaffirming his commitment to presenting what he described as a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.