The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has directed retired soldiers staging a protest at the Federal Ministry of Finance Headquarters in Abuja to vacate the premises immediately.

LMSINT Media reports that the demonstration involved a large group of ex-servicemen who voluntarily retired from the Nigerian Army in 2024. These veterans had gathered at the ministry, demanding the settlement of what they described as their long-overdue financial entitlements.

The protesting former soldiers accused the Federal Government of abandoning them despite their dedicated years of service to the nation. Many of them expressed deep frustration over what they see as a prolonged neglect of their welfare.

Defence Headquarters’ Response

Reacting to the situation, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, ordered the protesting veterans to vacate the ministry immediately. He emphasized that their continued presence at the premises was disrupting the smooth running of official activities at the Ministry of Finance.

In his words:

“While the Defence Headquarters acknowledges the right to a peaceful and lawful protest, the veterans are strongly advised to vacate the Federal Ministry of Finance to ensure that government operations proceed without obstruction.”

Kangye further explained that the directive was intended to protect both the dignity of the armed forces and the smooth functioning of civil governance.

Call for Caution

The Defence Headquarters urged the aggrieved soldiers to tread with caution and pursue their grievances through appropriate legal and administrative channels rather than obstructing public institutions.

Kangye also reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to their constitutional responsibilities:

• Defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity
• Supporting civil authorities in maintaining internal security
• Promoting peace and stability across all regions of the country

He assured the public that the military would continue to uphold its duty while respecting democratic principles and the rights of citizens.