Peter Obi: I Never Said Military Should Reject Salary Increase

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2027 presidential election, has denied reports claiming that he asked Nigerian soldiers to reject any salary increase until after the elections.
Obi made the clarification while reacting to a report which attributed to him a statement suggesting that members of the Nigerian military should refuse salary increments until after the 2027 election.
The NDC presidential candidate described the report as false and misleading, stressing that his position has consistently been that Nigeria’s security forces deserve adequate equipment, motivation and protection.
He also expressed concern over the safety of soldiers serving in conflict areas, particularly following the loss of military personnel to insurgents in circumstances he said involved a delayed rescue effort.
“I never said military should reject salary increase,” Obi said, insisting that the assertion attributed to him was entirely untrue.
Obi said his respect for Nigeria’s security forces, particularly personnel of the Nigerian Army, remained unwavering, noting that they continue to serve and protect the country under challenging conditions.
“My profound respect for our security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army personnel who diligently serve and protect our nation under challenging conditions, is unwavering,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor further said that if elected president, the welfare, resources, safety and honour of Nigerian soldiers would be a paramount priority of his administration.
“Those who ensure Nigeria’s security must never be relegated to a secondary concern,” Obi said, adding that soldiers deserve the utmost respect, unwavering support and a government that would stand firmly by them.
Obi urged Nigerians to disregard the report and said he remained committed to presenting a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.