Mischievous elements shot video of soldiers begging for water – Army

The Nigerian Army says the video of soldiers begging for water and food, which went viral on Tuesday, was shot by “mischievous and disgruntled elements”.

The video, which was uploaded on YouTube, showed several soldiers at Alargarno in Borno State, lamenting their lack of food and water and seeking the intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari.

However, following the release of the video to the public, the Nigerian Army said the problem was caused by a mischievous soldier, who had since been punished.

In a statement late on Tuesday by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Sani Usman, the army said, “We wish to state that the video clip was shot more than six months ago by some mischievous and disgruntled elements when 29 Task Force Brigade captured Alagarno Forest and environs in Borno State.

“It is disheartening that some mischievous elements have decided to circulate it now, creating the false impression that it is a recent occurrence.

“We wish to state further that the matter was conclusively investigated at the time, several months ago. The Board of Inquiry actually showed that, as of the time of the incident, the unit’s water tanker still contained water, but a soldier mischievously concealed it. That soldier was charged and punished accordingly.

“In addition to the unit’s water tanker, a borehole was subsequently drilled at the location and it is still serving both the military and adjoining communities.

“We wish to restate with utmost concern the continued commitment of the Nigerian Army to the total welfare of all its personnel.”

Punch