Mass Resignation Hits Nigerian Army as 196 Soldiers Quit Amid Corruption and Low Morale
In a shocking move, 196 Nigerian soldiers have tendered their resignation letters to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, citing corruption, low morale, and poor welfare as reasons for their decision.
The soldiers, mostly junior cadres, are from various formations across the country and have been approved for voluntary retirement. Sources close to the matter revealed that many of the resigning soldiers plan to join the military forces of other countries, including the British Army, Ukrainian Army, and other Commonwealth nations.
The mass resignation has raised concerns about the state of the Nigerian military and its ability to combat security challenges. “The army is the epitome of deep-seated corruption,” said one soldier, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “We’re being forced to confront terrorists without adequate equipment or motivation. Our morale is low, and we’re not willing to continue fighting.”
Another soldier, who also wished to remain anonymous, added, “We’re tired of being used as cannon fodder. We’re not being taken care of, and our families are suffering. It’s time for us to prioritize our well-being.”
This is not the first time soldiers have resigned en masse. In recent months, dozens of soldiers have left the Nigerian Army to join foreign military forces, citing poor welfare and inadequate equipment.
The Chief of Army Staff approved the voluntary disengagement of the soldiers on August 23, and the process is currently underway. However, the military authorities have yet to comment on the reasons behind the mass resignation.
The mass resignation is a blow to the Nigerian military, which is already struggling to combat Boko Haram militants in the North-East. The move has raised concerns about the country’s ability to maintain security and stability.
This is a wake-up call for the government.
