April 8, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
A fresh controversy has erupted involving the Nigerian Army as a dismissed soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly called Soja Boi, has publicly challenged the military to release its official payroll structure.
In a viral video circulating online, the former lance corporal presented what he described as bank transaction alerts as evidence of soldiers’ earnings, insisting he is speaking facts—not trying to discredit the institution.
“I am not trying to spoil the Nigerian Army’s image… I am just stating facts and backing them with evidence,” he said.
Claims on Soldiers’ Earnings
Olamilekan displayed multiple alerts allegedly received during his service, including:
- A ₦112,061.59 payment, which he claimed was his monthly salary
- A ₦20,000 allowance, described as a “grumbling allowance”
- A ₦45,000 operational payment, allegedly for deployments in conflict zones such as Maiduguri
He further claimed that soldiers may also receive a ₦6,000 security allowance, but emphasized that operational allowances are not consistent and are only paid during active deployment.
According to him, personnel stationed in barracks without deployment typically survive on basic salary and limited allowances.
Allegations on Welfare and Equipment
The ex-soldier also reignited concerns about troop welfare, alleging that some soldiers are forced to purchase essential protective gear themselves.
“Helmet, you go buy. Fragmentation jacket, you go buy them,” he claimed.
He urged Nigerians to verify his statements by speaking directly with serving military personnel, while issuing a bold challenge:
“If they say I am lying, they should bring out their payroll. How much are they paying soldiers?”
Army Responds, Dismisses Claims
The Nigerian Army had earlier rejected Olamilekan’s allegations, describing them as false and misleading.
In its response, the Army maintained that:
- Soldiers are provided with uniforms, weapons, and protective kits through official channels
- No personnel is deployed without adequate operational equipment
- Salaries and allowances are structured, consolidated, and paid directly into bank accounts
The military acknowledged that some personnel may choose to supplement issued kits voluntarily, but insisted such actions are not compulsory.
Background to the Controversy
Rotimi Olamilekan first gained public attention in February 2026 after a viral video where he called on political leaders to send their children into military service.
He was later arrested, reportedly detained, and eventually dismissed by the Army. Authorities cited indiscipline, violation of social media rules, and unauthorized public statements as reasons for his dismissal—not the content of his claims.
Unverified Evidence
Despite the viral nature of the video, the authenticity of the bank alerts has not been independently verified, as some of the documents lack clear institutional identifiers linking them directly to official military payroll systems.
The development has sparked renewed debate over military welfare, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria, with many Nigerians calling for clarity on the issues raised.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to follow this developing story and bring you verified, balanced, and timely updates.
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