A viral video has drawn widespread condemnation after showing Nigerian soldiers providing personal assistance to a private car dealer, reigniting debates over the role of the military amid the country’s security challenges.
The footage, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by user @General_Somto and reported by SaharaReporters, shows a car dealer in white caftans being accompanied by at least two uniformed soldiers and an unidentified officer in plain clothes. At one point, a soldier is seen rushing to open the door of a luxury SUV for the businessman—a role normally associated with domestic staff or private security.
The video emerged following a directive by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to withdraw Police Mobile Force personnel from VIPs and private individuals, redirecting them to core policing duties.
Critics argue that Nigeria’s wealthy elite appear to be turning to the military for personal security, an action they describe as a misallocation of resources and an illegal use of the nation’s defense forces.
“When soldiers are seen doing what looks like VIP escort, it sparks strong feelings, especially in Nigeria that is already dealing with serious security challenges. It raises questions about priorities, optics, and the proper roles of military vs police. Very sad to watch,” wrote @Ejikeisreal10.
Some observers, however, defended the practice, questioning whether the military has a clear mandate to combat insurgents and bandits in the country’s North and West. @GlobalGENDARY commented, “Car dealer going around with soldiers?? Is that so bad?? Or what is the job of a soldier in Nigeria since they can’t fight and win Bandits and Boko Haram??”
As of this report, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement regarding the legality of the soldiers’ attachment to the private citizen.
