Army arrests 16 officers over misconduct

As part of efforts to uphold professionalism and discipline within its ranks, the Nigerian Army has arrested 16 officers accused of misconduct and violation of service rules.

Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Saturday, describing the move as part of ongoing efforts to uphold military ethics and restore confidence in the Armed Forces.

According to Gusau, the disciplinary action followed a routine internal review aimed at addressing breaches of military standards, loyalty, and professional conduct.

Preliminary findings indicate that the affected officers had expressed grievances over repeated promotion failures and career stagnation, issues the military said may have contributed to declining morale and indiscipline.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the public that a routine military exercise has resulted in the arrest of sixteen officers over issues of indiscipline and breach of service regulations,” Gusau said.

“Investigations have revealed that their grievances stemmed largely from perceived career stagnation caused by repeated failure in promotion examinations, among other issues.”

The military spokesman further explained that some of the apprehended officers had long been under jurisdiction for various offences and were either awaiting or undergoing trial before their arrest.

Their conduct, he stressed, was considered incompatible with the discipline and standards expected of military officers.

Brigadier General Gusau noted that those found guilty at the end of ongoing investigations would face the full weight of military law through the armed forces’ disciplinary process, in line with established rules of engagement and service discipline.

The Defence Headquarters reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on behaviour that could undermine the integrity of the Nigerian military or threaten its constitutional role under a democratic system.

“The Armed Forces will not tolerate behaviour that undermines the integrity of the institution or threatens its constitutional role under democratic authority.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to its constitutional responsibilities and will remain professional at all times,” Gusau added.

Gusau reiterated the Armed Forces’ commitment to fairness and due process, assuring that the officers would face a transparent trial in accordance with military law.

He added that the disciplinary exercise underscores the military’s zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, emphasizing that no one is above the rules governing service integrity and operational order.