The Nigerian Army says a viral publication that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu was planning to forcefully recruit Nigerians aged 18 and above into military service did not originate from the Force.
The Nigerian Army, in a statement released by the Acting Director, Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia on Friday in Abuja, denied it had any such plan to embark on forced recruitment.
According to the Army spokesperson, the claims were “malicious fabrication” deliberately crafted to mislead the public and incite fear.”
The viral post had alleged that due to the reluctance of Nigerians to voluntarily enrol, the COAS threatened compulsory conscription for youth who had clocked 18 years in age.
The post further claimed that 10,000 soldiers recruited last year had gone missing.
Anele said that the allegations were entirely unfounded, adding that the COAS never made such remarks at any time or in any forum.
She warned individuals and groups circulating false and inciting information to desist, saying those found culpable would be tracked, apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
