The Nigerian Army has debunked recent viral reports alleging sexual harassment and exploitation of widows of fallen soldiers during the processing of their husbands’ death benefits.

The military says it takes such allegations seriously and has urged anyone with credible evidence to come forward through the appropriate channels.

The Army’s response follows widespread social and traditional media reports alleging not only the neglect of widows of deceased military personnel but also claims of sexual misconduct and bribery in the course of accessing benefits.

In a statement issued by Apollonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the Army said that, as of the time of the response, no formal complaints had been received through its Human Rights Desks or other investigative channels.

“The Nigerian Army maintains zero tolerance for abuse or exploitation and encourages any widow with verifiable claims to come forward through the established complaints mechanisms. Such actions will be met with swift disciplinary measures,” the Army stated.

The statement emphasised that the Army deeply acknowledges the emotional and financial hardship families face after the loss of a loved one in service and remains committed to supporting them with transparency and accountability.

Contrary to the claims of neglect, it highlighted that the Nigerian Army has institutionalised a robust welfare support system for the next-of-kin (NOK) of deceased personnel.

“This includes the payment of gratuities through the Military Pension Board and coverage of burial expenses by the Army.

“Other benefits accessible to the NOK, according to the statement, include financial assistance from the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Group Personnel Accident Insurance, the Nigerian Army Welfare Insurance Scheme (NAWIS), Benevolent Funds, Group Life Insurance, and death gratuity”, the statement reads.

Furthermore, the Army also facilitates the withdrawal of the late personnel’s contributions from the Federal Housing Scheme and transfers the funds to the designated next-of-kin.

The Army’s reassurances come amid growing public concern over the welfare of military families, particularly widows, who have often raised concerns about long delays and systemic issues in the benefits process.

While reaffirming its commitment to discipline and justice, the Army called on all affected individuals to engage the system constructively by reporting cases with factual evidence to enable proper investigation and appropriate sanctions.