Fresh allegations have emerged from within the Nigerian Army’s 90 Battalion in Koko, Warri, Delta State, as soldiers claim that welfare neglect, administrative lapses, and integrity issues continue to plague the unit despite prior official denials.
Speaking to SaharaReporters on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, several soldiers said that conditions in the battalion have “deteriorated to an alarming degree”, citing internal power struggles, diversion of resources, and favoritism as major concerns.
Undue Influence by Senior NCOs
Multiple personnel alleged that two senior non-commissioned officers — Sgt Babangida Galadima (2000NA/49/466) and Sgt Abdulmalik Musa (2003NA/54/5259) — wield excessive authority, often overshadowing commissioned officers.
“One soldier reportedly said, ‘These two sergeants have more influence than officers. Even the Finance Officer and newly posted Chief Clerk were sidelined,’” the report stated. Another confirmed that the NCOs “effectively call the shots”, forcing officers to tread carefully around them.
Alleged Diversion of Welfare and Administrative Failures
Soldiers also claimed that welfare materials intended for rank-and-file personnel, such as drinking water, were diverted. One soldier explained:
“We operate in a riverine area but struggle to access clean water. Even getting approval for leave is difficult because the gunboats aren’t available.”
Administrative confusion was also highlighted, with claims that newly posted personnel, including a Master Warrant Officer appointed Chief Clerk, received no formal handover, violating military procedure.
Religious Bias in Checkpoint Postings
Perhaps the most concerning allegation relates to religion-based favoritism in the allocation of lucrative checkpoint duties. Soldiers claimed Muslim personnel were disproportionately assigned to major revenue-generating checkpoints such as Amukpe, Jesse, Oton, and Koko, allegedly paying weekly sums of ₦200,000 to the two senior NCOs.
“Checkpoints generate money, but assignments weren’t based on rotation or merit — only on religion and loyalty,” one soldier alleged.
The Army has not publicly addressed these claims of religious bias.
Suspicious Troop Rotations
Following recent media reports, the battalion reportedly carried out a sudden troop rotation on November 22, which soldiers interpreted as an attempt to scatter personnel familiar with internal issues.
“It wasn’t routine. It was clearly to relocate people who know too much,” a junior rating said. Others questioned the plausibility of a 24-hour investigation into welfare abuse, religious bias, and financial misconduct.
Concerns Over ₦7 Million Monthly Assistance Claim
The battalion’s earlier rebuttal claimed that Lt Col M. M. Garba, the Commanding Officer, provides soldiers with ₦7 million monthly, a figure met with skepticism by personnel. Soldiers demanded transparency, asking how such funds are sourced and spent.
Calls for an Independent Investigation
The soldiers insist they seek accountability, not confrontation, emphasizing that a neutral inquiry is the only way to address systemic issues. They expressed willingness to testify before an independent panel provided their identities are protected.
Operational Context
90 Battalion operates in a sensitive revenue and security corridor, manning waterways and checkpoints known for illegal oil bunkering, smuggling, and other economic crimes. Retired soldiers noted that concentrated power in the hands of sergeants has historically facilitated corruption in the Koko axis.
“We want fairness, welfare, and transparency. Only a neutral investigation can resolve this,” one active soldier concluded.
Efforts by SaharaReporters to contact the Director of Army Public Relations, Lt Col Anele Onyinyechi Appolonia, were unsuccessful.
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