The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has denied a report claiming that he asked Nigerian soldiers to reject any salary increase until after the forthcoming elections.
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Obi described the report as false, saying he had never made such a statement and urged Nigerians to disregard it.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor said his position on the welfare of members of the armed forces had always been clear, stressing that he holds Nigerian security personnel, particularly soldiers, in high regard.
“My profound respect for our security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army personnel who diligently serve and protect our nation under challenging conditions, is unwavering,” Obi said.
He said he had consistently called for better equipment, motivation and protection for security personnel, noting that those responsible for defending the country should not be left vulnerable while carrying out their duties.
Obi also referred to an incident in which soldiers were killed by insurgents after a delayed rescue operation, saying the development had raised serious concerns for him.
“My concern was palpable when soldiers were lost to insurgents due to a delayed rescue effort, prompting me to question how those defending us could be left vulnerable in their time of need,” he said.
The former governor said the welfare and safety of members of the armed forces would remain a major priority if he is elected President.
“Should I be elected President, the well-being, resources, safety, and honour of our soldiers will be a paramount priority,” he stated.
Obi said soldiers and other security personnel deserved the full support of the government because of the risks they take in protecting the country.
“Those who ensure Nigeria’s security must never be relegated to a secondary concern. Our soldiers are deserving of our utmost respect, unwavering support, and a government that will unequivocally stand by them,” he added.
He further promised that under his leadership, situations in which security personnel are left without adequate protection during dangerous operations would not continue.
“Under my leadership, scenarios where our servicemen and women are left unprotected in the face of peril will be eradicated,” Obi said.
Obi urged Nigerians to disregard the report attributing the controversial statement to him, describing it as misleading.
“I implore the Nigerian populace to dismiss this misleading report,” he said, while reaffirming his commitment to presenting what he described as a clear vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.