The Nigerian Army has issued an official response to allegations circulated on social media platforms, suggesting that widows of fallen soldiers have been neglected and subjected to sexual harassment and bribery during the processing of death benefits.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, described the publication as “disturbing” and emphasised the Army’s long-standing commitment to the welfare of deceased personnel’s families.

Contrary to the reports, the Nigerian Army clarified that it operates a comprehensive welfare structure for the next-of-kin (NOK) of fallen soldiers.

These include gratuities provided by the Military Pension Board, burial expenses, financial support from the Chief of Army Staff, and coverage under multiple insurance and welfare schemes such as the Nigerian Army Welfare Insurance Scheme (NAWIS), Group Life Insurance, Benevolent Funds, and access to the deceased’s contributions to the Federal Housing Scheme.

Furthermore, the Army highlighted its scholarship program for children of deceased personnel, which extends through tertiary education, as a testament to its enduring support for affected families.

Regarding the allegations of sexual harassment and extortion, the Army stated that no formal complaints had been lodged through its Human Rights Desks or other investigative channels. “The Nigerian Army takes all allegations of misconduct seriously and encourages anyone with credible evidence to report through the established mechanisms to ensure swift action,” the statement read.

While expressing sympathy for the emotional and economic hardships faced by widows, the Army called on individuals making such claims to provide specific details, including the names of deceased personnel, to facilitate verification and resolution.

“The Nigerian Army remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of its personnel and their families,” said Anele.