Nigerian military arrests 16 officers over indiscipline, breach of service regulations

By Kunle Sanni –

The Armed Forces of Nigeria has confirmed the arrest of sixteen officers for alleged acts of indiscipline and violations of service regulations.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, preliminary investigations revealed that the detained officers’ grievances were largely tied to frustrations over repeated failures in promotion examinations and perceived stagnation in their military careers.

Gusau described the conduct of the officers as “incompatible with military standards,” noting that some of them were already facing disciplinary proceedings or awaiting trial for various offences.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the public that a routine military exercise has led to the arrest of sixteen officers over issues of indiscipline and breach of service regulations,” the statement read. “Investigations have revealed that their grievances stemmed from perceived career stagnation caused by repeated failure in promotion examinations, among other issues.”

He added that those found culpable at the end of the investigation would be subjected to the full military disciplinary process in line with established procedures.

“Upon completion of investigations, indicted officers will face the full military disciplinary process to ensure accountability and preserve professionalism within the Armed Forces,” Gusau said.

The Defence spokesperson emphasized that the action was purely disciplinary and part of ongoing efforts to maintain order, discipline, and loyalty across the ranks.

“The Armed Forces will not tolerate behaviour that undermines its integrity or threatens its constitutional role under democratic authority,” Gusau added.