The Nigerian Army has denied a widespread report that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, was preparing to forcefully recruit Nigerians aged 18 and up for military duty.
The Nigerian Army disputed this in a statement issued Friday in Abuja by the Acting Director of Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia.
Anele added that the viral tweet claimed that the COAS had threatened compulsory conscription for youths who refused to voluntarily enlist.
The message further stated that 10,000 soldiers recruited last year had gone AWOL.
However, the Army spokeswoman stated that the assertions were a “malicious fabrication” designed to mislead the public and instill panic.
Anele said that the charges were completely false and that the COAS had never made such remarks at any time or in any forum.
She cautioned individuals and groups who spread false and inciting material to stop, stating that those found guilty would be traced, apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Anele asked the public to dismiss the misinformation and instead rely on confirmed official communication channels and social media accounts for accurate information.
