Nigerian Army reacts to list of Army officers who were compulsorily retired over corruption allegations

In statement issued on Friday by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Kukasheka Usman, the Nigerian army confirmed the retirement of Major Generals, Brigadier Generals, Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels and a Major based on Service exigencies. They however did not reveal any names.

Over the weekend, Sahara Reporters revealed what they claimed is a partial list of the names/photos of the supposed officers compulsorily retired. The Army has now debunked that list, saying that it is mere speculation and some of the names of the officers mentioned are still serving.

Statement from the Nigerian army

The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to speculations and rumours regarding the number and names of the senior Army officers affected in the recent retirement exercise.
This is worrisome as some individuals and media houses went to the ridiculous extent of publishing outrageous figures and names of serving officers as being retired. This is unethical and unfair. It is therefore necessary to inform the public to please disregard such inaccurate lists. We wish to state that only 38 senior officers were affected by the retirement exercise.

For the avoidance of doubt the following is the statistics of the officers retired compulsorily; 9 Major Generals, 10 Brigadier Generals, 7 Colonels, 11 Lieutenant Colonels and a Major. We are quite aware that some mischievous elements are trying to whip up sentiments. This is quite unfortunate because all the affected officers were retired based on Service exigencies and in line with the Armed Forces Act, CAP A20 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

It is pertinent to remind all that the Nigerian Army is a professional institution that is based on highest standards of discipline and conduct. Consequently it's personnel must remain professional, neutral and apolitical at all times. Thank you for your usual and kind cooperation.

Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman Acting Director Army Public Relations