The Nigerian Army has provided clarity on the dismissal of former soldier Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as Soja Boi, asserting that his removal was the result of repeated disciplinary violations, not his viral commentary on political leadership.
Olamilekan attracted widespread attention in February 2026 after posting a video urging governors, senators, and ministers to send their children to join the military, particularly in lower ranks, to better understand the challenges faced by frontline soldiers.
Responding to the controversy, the Army, through its Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, stated that Olamilekan’s dismissal was unrelated to his public statements.
“The Nigerian Army categorically states that Mr Olamilekan was not dismissed for ‘speaking the truth’ or expressing opinions on political leadership.
He was dismissed following persistent and grave acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy,” the statement read.
The Army highlighted that as a professional institution, it operates under strict rules and regulations guiding personnel conduct. Olamilekan’s actions were deemed in violation of these standards.
“Like all professional militaries, the Nigerian Army operates under a strict Code of Conduct and the Armed Forces Act.
Unauthorised media appearances, commercialisation of military identity, partisan content creation and misuse of military uniform constitute clear breaches of established regulations.
His dismissal followed due process in line with military laws,” the statement added.
The Army reiterated its commitment to discipline, accountability, and the welfare of personnel, emphasizing that operational decisions, including postings and deployments, are guided strictly by strategic considerations.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to the highest standards of discipline, accountability, and troop welfare.
Operational decisions regarding postings and deployments are guided strictly by strategic and operational requirements,” it stated.
Urging the public to ignore misinformation, the Army described circulating claims as deliberate attempts to mislead and generate sympathy.
“Therefore, the public is requested to disregard these baseless allegations, which are clearly intended to misinform and generate unwarranted sympathy,” the statement said.
It further warned against amplifying unverified information that could undermine public confidence and morale.
“The Nigerian Army emphasises the need for sustained public support for the Armed Forces and other security agencies, whose personnel continue to make significant sacrifices in defence of the nation.
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Citizens are urged to refrain from amplifying unverified claims that may undermine these institutions.
Those inclined to support such narratives are advised to desist, as they are founded on falsehoods and are capable of weakening troop morale and national security efforts,” the statement added.
Olamilekan’s February 2026 video had drawn attention to the challenges faced by soldiers, with him stating:
“In this country, we have 36 governors, we have senators, we have ministers. Let each one of them bring their son to join the Nigerian Army. May they join the Nigerian Army, not even the officer, may they join the other rank.”
He added that such exposure would help political leaders understand frontline realities:
“So that they can come and witness what we dey witness. Every day, this killing is too much,” he said.
Following the video, Olamilekan was reportedly arrested and detained for several weeks, during which he spent his birthday in custody, sparking the #FreeSojaBoi campaign across social media.
After his release in March 2026, he thanked supporters for their advocacy on Instagram:
“We are grateful to everyone who stood up, spoke out, and used their platforms to demand fairness. Your voices were heard.
To friends, family, fans, and supporters across different platforms, thank you for your unwavering support during this difficult time.
Your reposts, tags, messages, and concern meant everything. You showed that unity and collective voice still matter,” he wrote.
Despite the Army’s explanation, Olamilekan has maintained that his dismissal was linked to his viral video.
“I was arrested and dismissed as a Nigerian soldier because of a video I made last year, where I called on politicians’ children to join the military,” he said.
Before his dismissal, Olamilekan had built a substantial online following as a content creator, sharing comedic and lifestyle videos in military attire. He also operates a streetwear brand, Giran Wears, focused on customised clothing.
