The Nigerian Army denies Koko Battalion allegations of misconduct and welfare neglect, affirming professionalism and commitment to soldier safety

The Nigerian Army on Wednesday categorically rejected social media claims suggesting that the 90 Amphibious Battalion in Koko, Delta State, is beset by internal power struggles, welfare neglect, and financial misappropriation.

Also read: Oronsaye Report: Don’t Merge Nigerian Army University With NDA, Olowu Urges President Tinubu

In a statement, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 6 Division, Lt Col Danjuma Danjuma, described the reports as “unsubstantiated and malicious falsehoods” intended to malign the battalion’s leadership.

“The attention of Headquarters, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, has been drawn to a publication circulating on social media.

This publication alleges that 90 Battalion, Koko, is marred by internal power tussles, poor welfare, and financial exploitation,” the statement read.

The controversy stemmed from claims made on November 21 by anonymous soldiers alleging that the Commanding Officer, Lt Col M.M. Garba, misappropriated allowances paid by oil companies such as Chevron and Seplat.

The soldiers suggested that while companies remit between ₦350,000 and ₦400,000 per soldier monthly, only ₦40,000 reaches personnel.

Other accusations included inadequate provisions, raw rations lasting less than a week, and unfair duty rotations allegedly favouring Muslim soldiers loyal to Lt Col Garba. One soldier was quoted saying, “We work like elephants and eat like ants.”

The Division dismissed the allegations as false, emphasising that postings and deployments are routine and conducted without regard to religion or loyalty.

“The assertion that the Battalion assigns duties based on such factors is not only baseless but also a deliberate attempt at institutional and command defamation,” the statement said.

Lt Col Danjuma stressed that the Army maintains a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, welfare abuse, religiously biased postings, or any misconduct. He confirmed that Lt Col Garba has been performing his duties professionally within available resources.

The Division highlighted that established channels exist for personnel to report administrative grievances at all levels.

“Any personnel resorting to alternative methods should be regarded as attempting to tarnish the institution’s reputation and their claims disregarded,” the statement added.

The Army reassured the public that any substantiated reports, particularly regarding extortion, would be thoroughly investigated.

Also read: Nigerian Army rescue five students of Kaduna College of Forestry

It concluded by affirming its commitment to ensuring the security and safety of residents in the Niger Delta Region.