The Nigerian Army has declared 44 soldiers, deployed to Borno State to fight Boko Haram, wanted for desertion after their failure to report to duty as directed.
A military signal from the 403 Amphibious Brigade in Baga, exclusively obtained by SaharaReporters, revealed that the soldiers’ bank accounts have been frozen, and any personnel with knowledge of their whereabouts have been instructed to report them for immediate apprehension.
According to military sources, the soldiers, drawn from various formations, were posted to join the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in Borno.
Despite being due for deployment by October 31, 2024, they have yet to appear, leading the presiding officer, Major HO Akoh, to declare them absent without official leave (AWOL) and order strict disciplinary measures.
The reasons for this large-scale desertion may stem from low morale, dissatisfaction with prolonged deployment, and alleged corruption within the Nigerian Army. Soldiers have voiced frustration over being kept on the frontlines beyond their designated terms and cited inadequate support in the ongoing fight against Boko Haram.
Some also suggest that better prospects abroad may be drawing soldiers away, with unconfirmed reports of Nigerian personnel interested in joining foreign military forces like the British and Ukrainian armies.
Under Nigerian military law, desertion is a severe offense with serious consequences. If captured, the soldiers may face court-martial and potential imprisonment, with penalties including forfeiture of salaries, loss of benefits, and possible dishonorable discharge from the military.
According to the Director of Army Public Relations, Major-General Onyema Nwachukwu, all procedures for military disengagement are outlined in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service, with voluntary retirement and discharge requiring adherence to protocol.
This latest desertion incident highlights challenges within the Nigerian Army’s fight against terrorism and raises questions about morale and structural issues within the ranks.
