Army Clarifies Claims of Bribery, Sexual Harassment in Benefits Processing
The Nigerian Army has officially responded to recent social media and media allegations suggesting neglect of widows of fallen soldiers and misconduct—including bribery and sexual harassment—during the processing of death benefits.
The allegations, which appeared on Instagram via @hausaroom and were published by Punch Newspaper on May 18, 2025, accuse Army personnel of demanding bribes and engaging in inappropriate conduct while processing the entitlements of deceased soldiers’ families.
In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the Army described the allegations as “disturbing” and emphasized its commitment to the welfare of its personnel and their families.
“Contrary to the claims of neglect, the Nigerian Army has institutionalized a robust welfare system that provides death benefits to the next-of-kin (NOK) of deceased personnel,” the statement reads.
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According to the Army, death benefits include gratuities paid by the Military Pension Board, burial expenses, financial support from the Chief of Army Staff, accident insurance, the Nigerian Army Welfare Insurance Scheme (NAWIS), benevolent funds, and group life insurance. Additionally, the Army facilitates access to housing contributions made by the deceased through the Federal Housing Scheme.
The Army also highlighted a scholarship scheme that supports the children of fallen soldiers through tertiary education, reinforcing its long-term commitment to affected families.
On the sensitive issue of sexual harassment, the Army stated unequivocally that it maintains a zero-tolerance policy for abuse or misconduct. However, it noted that no formal complaints had been submitted to its Human Rights Desks or investigative units as of the time of the response.
“Anyone with credible evidence is strongly encouraged to report such misconduct through established complaint mechanisms to enable prompt disciplinary action,” the Army urged.
While expressing sympathy with the emotional and socio-economic difficulties faced by the widows and families of fallen heroes, the Nigerian Army called on individuals making allegations to come forward with specific information. This includes identifying the deceased personnel involved and detailing the benefits claimed to be unpaid.
“Without concrete details or formal complaints submitted through official channels, it is challenging to verify or resolve any case effectively,” the Army emphasized.
She reaffirming the Army’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and the continued support of its personnel and their families.
By PRNigeria
