Nigerian Army soldiers reportedly arrested Colonel Audu Ogli Achigili on Monday. They took him from his home. His family watched the dramatic scene.
Colonel Achigili’s Arrest at Residence
Online videos document the intense arrest. Soldiers arrived at his home. They pulled him into a vehicle.
His emotional son cried. “See how they are dragging my father,” he exclaimed. He protested the treatment.
Another video showed the boy’s accusations. He claimed a sergeant detained his father. “They want to kill my dad,” he stated.
Colonel Achigili’s Public Statement
On Sunday, Colonel Achigili voiced his frustration. He had served for decades. He survived dangerous missions. Yet, his 2023 promotion remained unapplied.
He called the delay a deliberate plot. It was influenced by a local land dispute. This occurred in his home community.
He spoke of his long service. He listed key achievements.
He led Sector 3 Garrison for two years. This was during Operation Hadin Kai in the North East. He fought bravely to protect citizens. He also joined Operation Harmony (IV) Bakassi Peninsula. This ran from 1998 to 2000. From 2006 to 2007, he served in the African Union Mission in Darfur. In 2001, he helped restore order during the OPC crisis in Lagos. President Bola Tinubu was Lagos State Governor then. Colonel Achigili nearly died in the Ikeja bomb blast. His service earned him several “unblemished” awards.
Allegations of Promotion Blockage
Colonel Achigili’s promotion stalled. He alleged a link to Dr. John Ochai. Ochai is the clan head of Oglewu, Benue State. Achigili claimed Ochai influenced a retired Military Secretary. This alleged influence blocked his promotion. A land dispute was cited as the reason.
Ochai was General Ochigbano’s classmate. They were friends. They attended Government Secondary School, Atilo in 1985. This was Achigili’s statement.
He further criticized the promotion process. It favored specific officers. He claimed bias for “godsons” over merit.
He discussed recent promotions. These were from Brigadier General to Major General.
Officers from the 41st course were disregarded. Their juniors were favored for promotion. These 41st course members were gallant officers. Only two from that course were promoted. One of these officers was deceased.
Erosion of Army Professionalism Concerns
Colonel Achigili warned against such practices. They could weaken Army professionalism. This applies to the Nigerian Army.
Education officers received higher promotions. Combat officers were overlooked. Military school education quality also dropped. Soldiers now enroll children in private schools. These are outside the barracks.
Call for Urgent Intervention
The officer seeks urgent intervention. He wants his promotion implemented. This must occur before his mandatory retirement.
He stressed the negative impact of delays. Favoritism could demoralize dedicated officers. These officers risk their lives for the nation.
The Nigerian Army has not commented. No official statement exists. This concerns Colonel Achigili’s arrest.
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