The Nigerian Army’s 35 Artillery Brigade has dismissed viral allegations of non-payment of allowances and extortion in Ogun State, reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and troop welfare under Operation MESA.

Nigerian Army Refutes Allegations of Non-Payment and Extortion in Ogun State

The Headquarters of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Abeokuta, has firmly dismissed allegations circulating in a viral social media video accusing senior officers of denying soldiers their allowances and engaging in extortion along border routes.

The video, authored by one Abdul, made claims against Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba, Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade; Lieutenant Colonel Innocent Matthew, Commanding Officer of the 351 Artillery Regiment; and Major Isaac Ezechukwu, Brigade Operations Officer. The Army has described these allegations as false, malicious, and deliberately misleading.

Soldiers’ Allowances Under Operation MESA

Clarifying the issue of allowances, the Brigade explained that soldiers deployed on company duties in Ogun State operate under Operation MESA, a state-sponsored multi-agency security initiative.

Before Brigadier General Nwamba assumed command in January 2025, personnel received ₦45,000 monthly. In line with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of sound administration and troop welfare, the Brigade Commander approved an upward review to ₦60,000 per soldier monthly. This allowance, the Army stressed, is being duly paid by the state government.

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Zero Tolerance for Extortion

On allegations of extortion along border routes, the Brigade categorically denied any misconduct. It emphasized that the Nigerian Army maintains zero tolerance for indiscipline and extortion, and no credible complaints have been recorded against its troops.

In compliance with directives from Defence and Army Headquarters, unnecessary checkpoints have been removed, leaving only relevant security agencies to inspect vehicles commuting the roads.

Malicious Claims by a Disgruntled Ex-Airman

The Army identified the individual behind the video as a disgruntled retired airman with a history of propaganda and attempts to discredit senior officers. His current actions, the Brigade noted, are aimed at attracting undue social media attention and misleading the public.

Commitment to Professionalism and Security

The 35 Artillery Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the welfare of its personnel. It pledged continued collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders in Ogun State to safeguard lives and property while upholding the highest standards of military ethics and discipline.