By Rismadarvoice Reporters
January 3, 2026
A viral social media video alleging that soldiers deployed in Ogun State were being denied allowances and routinely extorting motorists has sparked public outrage, drawn an official response from the Nigerian Army.
The video, posted by one Abdul, targeted top military officials including Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba, Commander of 35 Artillery Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Innocent Matthew, Commanding Officer of 351 Artillery Regiment and Major Isaac Ezechukwu, Brigade Operations Officer.
In a press release issued on January 2, 2026, Headquarters 35 Artillery Brigade in Abeokuta dismissed the allegations as false, malicious.
The Brigade emphasized that soldiers operating under Operation MESA, a state sponsored multi agency security initiative have not only received their allowances but saw a pay increase from ₦45 000 to ₦60 000 per month under Brigadier General Nwamba’s command.
The Brigade further stated that troops deployed along border routes have never engaged in extortion, that all unnecessary checkpoints have been removed in compliance with Defence and Army Headquarters directives.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its zero tolerance for indiscipline, stressed that no credible complaints have been recorded against personnel in Ogun State.
The press release also accused the individual behind the video of being a disgruntled retired airman, with a history of attempting to discredit senior officers, spreading false narratives.
The Brigade described the video as deliberately misleading, aimed at attracting undue social media attention.
Headquarters 35 Artillery Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency and the welfare of its personnel while pledging continued collaboration with other security agencies to protect lives and property in Ogun State.
