Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, has issued a firm denial of a viral report that claimed he asked members of the Nigerian military to reject any salary increase until after the polls. In a statement posted on his official X account on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, Obi described the report as entirely false and urged Nigerians to disregard it, insisting that he has always advocated for improved welfare, equipment and protection for the country's security forces. The denial comes just days after President Bola Tinubu approved a fresh salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces, a decision that has sparked widespread debate across political and military circles.
Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, made his position unequivocal in the statement. "I wish to address a recent report that falsely attributes a statement to me, suggesting that Nigerian soldiers should refuse any salary increments until after the elections. This assertion is entirely untrue," he said. The NDC presidential candidate stressed that his respect for Nigeria's security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army personnel who serve under challenging conditions, remains unwavering. He recalled his previous concerns over the deaths of soldiers during security operations, particularly an incident involving what he described as a delayed rescue effort. "My concern was palpable when soldiers were lost to insurgents due to a delayed rescue effort, prompting me to question how those defending us could be left vulnerable in their time of need," Obi stated.
The controversy erupted after a report surfaced online suggesting that Obi had called on soldiers to reject the salary increase recently approved by the Tinubu administration until after the 2027 elections. The claim, which spread rapidly across social media platforms, drew sharp reactions from political observers and members of the public. However, fact-checking organisations have since weighed in on the matter. Fact Check Africa, a prominent verification platform, examined the claim and concluded that it was false, noting that there was no evidence to support the assertion that Obi made such a statement. The organisation's verdict, published on August 10, 2026, stated: "The claim that Peter Obi said, 'Nigeria army should reject the new approved salary increase until after the 2027 election,' is false".
Obi used the opportunity to reaffirm his commitment to the welfare of military personnel, pledging that if elected President, the well-being, resources, safety and honour of Nigerian soldiers would be a paramount priority. "Those who ensure Nigeria's security must never be relegated to a secondary concern. Our soldiers are deserving of our utmost respect, unwavering support, and a government that will unequivocally stand by them," he declared. He further vowed that under his leadership, situations in which servicemen and women were left unprotected in the face of peril would be eradicated. "Under my leadership, scenarios where our servicemen and women are left unprotected in the face of peril will be eradicated," Obi said.
The salary increase for military personnel was approved by President Tinubu and is set to take effect from September 1, 2026, benefiting approximately 250,000 personnel. The new pay structure provides a 50 per cent increase for personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer. The decision has been welcomed by various quarters, with the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) backing the increase and dismissing suggestions that its timing should be viewed through a political lens. NNPP National Chairman Agbo Major argued that better remuneration would boost morale and enhance the commitment of security personnel, stressing that the welfare of those defending the nation should not be subjected to political debate.
The controversy surrounding Obi's alleged comments highlights the growing intensity of political discourse ahead of the 2027 elections. With the NDC candidate positioning himself as a vocal critic of the current administration, misinformation and disinformation have become increasingly prevalent, forcing political actors to repeatedly clarify their positions. Obi's denial is the latest in a series of such clarifications, underscoring the challenges of navigating a political landscape where false narratives can spread rapidly and damage reputations.
Obi concluded his statement by urging Nigerians to dismiss the misleading report and focus on his articulated vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria. "I implore the Nigerian populace to dismiss this misleading report. I remain committed to articulating a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria. The realisation of a new and secure Nigeria is indeed possible," he said. The NDC candidate's firm denial and his reaffirmation of support for the military serve as a reminder that in the heated atmosphere of electoral politics, not everything that circulates online can be taken at face value. For the soldiers who serve on the front lines, the promise of better welfare and protection remains a critical issue that transcends partisan divides. Whether Obi's pledge will translate into action if he wins the presidency is a question for the future, but for now, he has made his position unmistakably clear: he never asked the military to reject a salary increase, and he never will.
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