“Soja Boi dismissed for indiscipline, not viral video” – Nigerian Army breaks silence
The Nigerian Army has addressed the controversy surrounding the dismissal of former soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as Soja Boi, stating that his removal from service was due to repeated acts of indiscipline and not his viral criticism of political leaders.
The clarification comes weeks after the ex-soldier’s viral video sparked widespread reactions across social media.
Viral Video That Sparked Nationwide Attention
Olamilekan gained public attention in February 2026 after a video surfaced online showing him calling on political leaders to allow their children join the military, especially at lower ranks.
“In this country, we have governors, senators, ministers. Let each one of them bring their son to join the Nigerian Army… so they can come and witness what we dey witness. Every day, this killing is too much,” he said.
The video resonated with many Nigerians and quickly went viral across social media platforms.
#FreeSojaBoi Campaign and Detention Claims
Following the video, his management alleged that he was arrested and detained for several weeks, during which he reportedly spent his birthday in custody.
The situation triggered the #FreeSojaBoi campaign, as supporters demanded his release.
After regaining freedom in March 2026, Olamilekan expressed appreciation to those who stood by him.
“We are grateful to everyone who stood up, spoke out, and used their platforms to demand fairness. Your voices were heard,” he said.
Ex-Soldier Insists Video Led to Dismissal
Despite the Army’s position, Olamilekan insists that his dismissal was directly linked to the 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 claimed.
Life as a Content Creator
Before his dismissal, Olamilekan had built a strong following online as a content creator, sharing comedic and lifestyle videos, often appearing in military attire.
He is also associated with a clothing brand, Giran Wears, which focuses on customised streetwear.
Army Speaks on Reason for Dismissal
Reacting to the controversy, the Nigerian Army, in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, dismissed claims that the former soldier was punished for speaking out.
“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 explained that it operates within clearly defined rules and regulations that guide the conduct of its personnel, noting that Olamilekan’s actions contravened several provisions.
“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,” it added.
Army Warns Against ‘False Narratives’
The military authority further urged the public to disregard what it described as misleading claims surrounding the issue.
“Therefore, the public is requested to disregard these baseless allegations, which are clearly intended to misinform and generate unwarranted sympathy,” the statement said.
It also cautioned Nigerians against spreading unverified information that could undermine confidence in the military and affect troop morale.
“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.
“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. 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 concluded.
The development continues to stir mixed reactions, with many Nigerians weighing the Army’s explanation against the ex-soldier’s claims.