New Telegraph 
The Nigerian Army has refuted claims of mass resignations due to systemic corruption, inadequate welfare, low morale, and other related issues, saying however that soldiers and other personnel are free to resign from the service in accordance with laid down procedures as contained in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service.
In a statement yesterday, the Director of Army Public Relations, Onyema Nwachukwu, described the allegations as misleading and a deliberate attempt to cause disaffection in the service.
He said, “The recent publication in some media platforms, alleging mass resignation of Nigerian Army soldiers over corruption, low morale and the like is not only misleading, but also a deliberate attempt to sow seeds of disaffection and acrimony, as well as denigrate the patriotic service of personnel and reputation of the Nigerian Army.
“Consequently, it is crucial to clarify that service in the Nigerian Army, like most militaries the world over, is voluntary and not conscriptive. “This, therefore, provides that individuals are free and at liberty to disengage at will.
The situation is the same as the Nigerian Army personnel are at liberty to disengage from time to time in accordance with procedures as contained in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (Officers/Soldiers).
“ Onyema noted that discharge from the service is routine, adding that only in an unorganised army would the discharge of personnel be haphazardly handled. He said, “Discharge from the Nigerian Army is routine and in line with laid down procedures.
Only in an unorganised army would the discharge of personnel be handled haphazardly; hence, the compilation and release of names routinely, as must have been observed in the case of the Nigerian Army over the years.
“This process allows for personnel who are about to either mandatorily or voluntarily disengage to adequately prepare and process entitlements, emoluments, pensions, and gratuity for the period of service to the nation. “
Onyema said reasons given by personnel are confidential, which range from medical, community services and pursuit of other professions, among others.
