The 22 Armoured Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Sobi Cantonment, Kwara State, has launched an investigation into allegations of extortion reportedly carried out by personnel of the Nigerian Army at roadblocks in Baruten and Kaiama local government areas of Kwara State.
The Army, in a statement on Friday, said the action is in response to a recent publication by Sahara Reporters on 22 April 2025, which accused its personnel at checkpoints of engaging in the extortion of farmers and motorists in Baruten Local Government Area of the state.
A statement signed by Lt Stephen Nwankwo, acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, and made available to the journalists, said, “It is important to clarify that while the Nigerian Army respects the right of Nigerians to hold and share opinions, particularly on social media, this right should not be used as a platform to disseminate deliberate falsehoods.”
Nwankwo stated that while the Nigerian Army is committed to protecting the territorial integrity of the country, it would not waver in its responsibility of maintaining discipline among the ranks and file of its workforce.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to being a professional force that upholds the fundamental human rights of citizens by global best practices.
“As a self-regulating institution founded on the principles of discipline, justice and accountability, the Nigeria Army has a zero-tolerance policy for indiscipline. We will not tolerate any misconduct or actions that could compromise our values and principles.
“The Brigade assures both internal and external audiences that the allegations will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate administrative actions will be taken.
“Our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency is unwavering. The Nigerian Army will continue to defend the nation’s territorial integrity against external threats.
“We guarantee that the investigation process will be fair, impartial, and conducted according to our established procedures,” the statement noted.
