The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered a thorough and detailed investigation into a video circulating widely on social media and picked up by some mainstream media platforms displaying food items allegedly sent to the troops by their higher command, suggesting dissatisfaction with the quality and quantity of the food items.
Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lt-Col. Appolonia Anele, in a statement issued Thursday said while the authenticity and context of the video are yet to be fully ascertained, he assured the general public and all personnel that the matter would be treated with the seriousness it deserves.
He said: “The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn, with utmost concern, to a video circulating widely on social media and picked up by some mainstream media platforms.
“The footage shows some personnel displaying food items allegedly sent to them by their higher command, suggesting dissatisfaction with the quality and quantity of the food items.
“While the authenticity and context of the video are yet to be fully ascertained, the Nigerian Army wishes to assure the general public and all personnel that the matter is being treated with the seriousness it deserves.
“Consequently, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered a thorough and detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“In line with his commitment to transparency and accountability, the outcome of the investigation will be made public upon conclusion.”
Anele said Oluyede reiterated that troops’ welfare remained his topmost priority, in line with his command philosophy, adding that the philosophy was further reinforced in the recently launched “Soldier First” Concept, which places the welfare of family members, well-being, dignity, and operational readiness of soldiers at the core of all Army policies and actions.
He added that the Army encouraged personnel to utilise established and appropriate military channels to present their concerns or complaints especially on welfare services.
Anele emphasised that the use of unauthorised platforms to express grievances, particularly on operational matters, is highly discouraged and considered a breach of military ethics and discipline.