Why We Dismissed Soldier Who Told Politicians To Send Their Children To Battlefield

Why We Dismissed Soldier Who Told Politicians To Send Their Children To Battlefield 

The Nigerian Army has given reasons for dismissing former soldier Rotimi Olamilekan, also known as Soja Boi.

Naija News reports that the army said his dismissal was due to repeated acts of indiscipline and not because of his viral video about political leaders.

The clarification was made on Tuesday in a statement released by Appolonia Anele, who serves as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations.

The Army explained that Olamilekan’s removal followed several violations of military rules, including breaking the Armed Forces’ social media guidelines.

The Army stated that its operations are guided by strict rules and that every soldier is expected to follow them.

It explained that actions such as appearing in the media without approval, using military identity for personal gain, creating content linked to politics, and wearing military uniform inappropriately go against its regulations.

According to the statement, Olamilekan’s case was handled through proper military procedures before the final decision was taken.

The military body also said it remains focused on discipline, accountability, and the welfare of its personnel.

It added that decisions about postings and duties are based on operational needs and not influenced by public opinion.

The Army urged Nigerians to ignore claims suggesting that the soldier was punished for speaking about the challenges faced by troops. It described such reports as misleading and aimed at gaining public sympathy.

It also warned that spreading unverified information could weaken trust in the military and affect the morale of soldiers.

Olamilekan became widely known in February 2026 after posting a video where he called on governors, senators, and ministers to allow their children join the military at lower ranks so they could understand what soldiers experience.

The video gained attention across social media and led to mixed reactions from the public.

Following the video, people close to him claimed he was arrested and kept in custody for weeks, which led to an online campaign demanding his release.

After regaining freedom in March 2026, he thanked supporters who spoke up for him during that period.

NGIJ to Security Chiefs, Act Now or Step Aside

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has issued a strongly worded Easter message, condemning worsening insecurity and demanding urgent action from security chiefs.

In a statement signed by its National President, Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild said Nigeria must confront its security failures without delay.

The Guild congratulated Christians across Nigeria and the world on the Easter celebration, noting that the season crowns weeks of sacrifice, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

It also acknowledged that Muslims recently concluded Ramadan and celebrated Eid al-Fitr, describing both religious observances as powerful symbols of discipline and devotion.

NGIJ said the overlapping spiritual journeys of Christians and Muslims highlight a shared national lesson on unity and peaceful coexistence.

However, the Guild warned that the current security reality contradicts those values, as many communities continue to live in utter dread.

It described the recent killings in Jos as a grim reminder of deep cracks within the nation’s security architecture pointing out that the violence goes beyond headlines, insisting that it reflects systemic failure.

NGIJ condemned the bloodshed in the strongest terms possible and criticised what it called the growing helplessness of authorities. It argued that routine condemnations and post-attack visits by the relevant authorities saddled with the responsibility of securing lives and properties no longer satisfy public expectations.

The statement stressed that repeated promises without visible results only deepen public frustration and grief.

NGIJ maintained that every Nigerian deserves safety at home, in places of worship, and in public spaces while stressing that government must treat that responsibility as a non-negotiable duty.

The Guild urged security chiefs to respond with urgency, intelligence, and clear results. It insisted that those unable to guarantee safety should step aside for more capable leadership.

NGIJ also clarified that its position reflects a moral duty rather than political bias while noting that Easter symbolises sacrifice, accountability, and renewal, adding that real change requires courage and action.

It warned Nigerians against yielding to fear or division despite the tense climate and encouraged citizens to protect unity and resist forces that thrive on chaos.

The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to investigative journalism, promising to pursue truth and hold power accountable. It also pledged to amplify the voices of victims often ignored in national discourse.

NGIJ concluded that hope must translate into action, urging the nation to confront its challenges with urgency.

NGIJ, NILDS Set Stage for Collaboration to Deepen Governance and Accountability

NGIJ, NILDS Set Stage for Collaboration to Deepen Governance and Accountability

The leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) recently paid a courtesy visit to the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abuja, as part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen investigative journalism and deepen democratic accountability.

The visit focused on establishing a strategic partnership aimed at improving legislative reporting through training, joint research, policy dialogues, data sharing, and fellowship opportunities for our members. We also highlighted the Guild’s ongoing activities, particularly our Governance Assessment Visits across several states.

NILDS responded positively to our proposals, acknowledging the importance of collaboration between journalists and legislative institutions. The Institute expressed willingness to support capacity-building initiatives and consider our requests for a formal partnership.

We also formally notified NILDS of our planned Dele Giwa Memorial Annual Lecture and requested the use of their facility, as well as the participation of the Director-General as keynote speaker. These requests were well received and are being considered.

Overall, the visit was highly productive and marks the beginning of a promising collaboration that will create valuable opportunities for members and strengthen our collective impact.

Signed

President, NGIJ

BREAKING: Former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has reportedly returned a staggering ₦4 TRILLION to the Federal Government — funds allegedly taken during his tenure.

BREAKING: Former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has reportedly returned a staggering ₦4 TRILLION to the Federal Government — funds allegedly taken during his tenure.

Sources also claim he surrendered ownership of six banks linked to him.

That’s not all 👇

▪️ Former CBN Deputy Governor, Tunde Lemo, is said to have refunded $500 MILLION

▪️ Investigators reportedly uncovered $275 MILLION in an account tied to a 6-year-old boy, son of a former presidential aide

▪️ An additional ₦1.5 TRILLION traced to the same family

The probe, led by Jim Obazee, has allegedly recovered over ₦12 TRILLION so far — making it one of the biggest financial crackdowns in Nigeria’s history.

Meanwhile, NSA Nuhu Ribadu has warned that the current government inherited a deeply tr0ubled economy due to past l0oting.

~~Bello Isiaka (copied fb)

BREAKING: Former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has reportedly returned a staggering ₦4 TRILLION to the Federal Government — funds allegedly taken during his tenure.

BREAKING: Former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has reportedly returned a staggering ₦4 TRILLION to the Federal Government — funds allegedly taken during his tenure.

Sources also claim he surrendered ownership of six banks linked to him.

That’s not all 👇

▪️ Former CBN Deputy Governor, Tunde Lemo, is said to have refunded $500 MILLION

▪️ Investigators reportedly uncovered $275 MILLION in an account tied to a 6-year-old boy, son of a former presidential aide

▪️ An additional ₦1.5 TRILLION traced to the same family

The probe, led by Jim Obazee, has allegedly recovered over ₦12 TRILLION so far — making it one of the biggest financial crackdowns in Nigeria’s history.

Meanwhile, NSA Nuhu Ribadu has warned that the current government inherited a deeply tr0ubled economy due to past l0oting.

~~Bello Isiaka (copied fb)

BREAKING: Nigerian Troops Crush Terror Plot — 74 Militants Down, Drone Assault Foiled in Borno! Nigeria just witnessed one of the most decisive counterterrorism victories in recent months — and it sends a powerful message: the battlefield is changing, and so is the response.

BREAKING: Nigerian Troops Crush Terror Plot — 74 Militants Down, Drone Assault Foiled in Borno!

Nigeria just witnessed one of the most decisive counterterrorism victories in recent months — and it sends a powerful message: the battlefield is changing, and so is the response.

Between March 13–19, 2026, troops under Operation Hadin Kai engaged insurgent forces in a high-stakes confrontation around Mallam Fatori, Abadam LGA of Borno State — a region long considered a flashpoint in the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP.

What followed was not just a battle — it was a tactical statement.

The Clash: Terror Meets Resistance

According to Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, insurgents launched a coordinated, drone-assisted assault — a worrying sign of evolving tactics. These weren’t random attacks; they were calculated attempts to overwhelm military positions using aerial surveillance and possibly armed drone payloads.

But Nigerian forces were ready.

With precision ground response and decisive air support, troops repelled the attack, neutralized threats, and forced a chaotic retreat. What remained on the battlefield told the story:

74 terrorist bodies recovered

Multiple high-ranking commanders eliminated

Large-scale weapons cache seized:

38 AK-47 rifles

3 PKT machine guns

1 RPG launcher

Ammunition and tactical gear

The Bigger Picture: A Turning Point?

The involvement of drones marks a critical shift. Insurgent groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP are clearly adapting — leveraging technology to enhance their reach and lethality.

But this operation proves something even more important:

Nigeria’s military is adapting faster.

Under the strategic coordination of the Defence Headquarters and leadership voices like Edward Buba, operations are becoming more intelligence-driven, aggressive, and result-oriented.

This isn’t just about winning battles — it’s about breaking the backbone of insurgency logistics, leadership, and morale.

Operation Hadin Kai: Relentless Pressure

Operation Hadin Kai continues to intensify its footprint across the North-East. The latest success reinforces a clear trend:

Increased territorial control

Disruption of terror supply chains

Elimination of key leadership figures

Each operation chips away at the insurgents’ ability to regroup.

 What This Means for Nigerians

Let’s be clear — this is a major win, but not the end of the war.

Terror groups are weakened, not wiped out. Their shift to drone warfare shows desperation — but also danger.

However, victories like this:

Boost national morale

Strengthen military confidence

Signal progress toward long-term stability

Final Word: Momentum Is Building

Nigeria’s armed forces just proved that even in the face of evolving threats, discipline, coordination, and resilience win battles.

NGIJ urges unity, cautions politicians against divisive rhetoric ahead of 2027

The Nigeria Guild of Investigative Journalist (NGIJ) has called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and warned political actors against exploiting religious and ethnic divisions as the country gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Friday to mark the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebration, and jointly signed by its National President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan.

The Guild noted that this year’s Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, describing the alignment as a “rare and powerful symbolism” that underscores shared values across faiths.

According to the statement, both periods called for reflection, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion, stressing that such common ideals should serve as a foundation for national unity.

“For weeks, across mosques and churches, Nigerians prayed, fasted, gave to the needy, and sought a better version of themselves. If we can endure hardship together in pursuit of spiritual growth, then we can certainly live together in peace,” the Guild said.

However, NGIJ expressed concern over rising tensions in the country, warning that differences are increasingly being weaponised, particularly along religious and ethnic lines.

The Guild emphasised that the lessons of Ramadan and Lent should not end with celebrations but must be reflected in citizens’ daily conduct, urging Nigerians to embrace patience, empathy, and truth in their interactions.

While addressing the political class, the organisation cautioned against early signs of divisive campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections, including the spread of misinformation and fear-based rhetoric.

“We are already seeing early signs of the familiar playbook, divisive rhetoric, calculated misinformation, and appeals to fear rather than reason. That path is dangerous and ultimately destructive,” the statement read.

NGIJ urged politicians, political parties, and aspirants to focus on issue-based campaigns, particularly on the economy, security, and governance, rather than resorting to identity politics.

It warned that power gained through division could undermine national stability, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford another election cycle that deepens societal fractures.

The Guild also reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and responsible journalism, pledging to continue challenging false narratives and exposing misinformation.

“A peaceful and informed society requires citizens who think critically and reject manipulation,” it added.

The statement concluded by describing Eid al-Fitr as not only a moment of celebration but also a test of collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to choose unity over division in the interest of national progress.