Public commentator Mahdi Shehu has raised concerns over what he described as poor funding of military equipment, warning that it could put the lives of soldiers at risk.
In a post shared on his official X account on Monday, Shehu reacted to reports that only a small portion of the Nigerian Army’s 2025 budget for security equipment has been released.
According to him, although over N20 billion was approved for the purchase of security equipment, only about N1.7 billion—roughly 7 per cent—has been disbursed.
He questioned the implications of this for the safety of troops on the battlefield.
“Could that be the reason why our military are being killed on the battlefield like common bush rats?” he asked.
Shehu also raised concerns about cases of soldiers abandoning their duty posts, suggesting that poor support and lack of equipment could be a factor.
“Could that be the reason why soldiers are deserting their stations, leaving behind their rifles and uniforms?” he said.
He further questioned the use of funds borrowed in the name of tackling insecurity, asking: “Where are the monies being borrowed in the name of fighting insecurity?”
The commentator also suggested that withholding funds meant for security could have serious consequences.
“By refusing to release budget monies, is anybody deliberately shortchanging security forces so that as many innocent civilians as possible will die?” he asked.
Shehu expressed concern that governments at different levels may not be prioritising the safety of citizens as expected.
“It is now clear that governments at all levels are reneging on their responsibility for the security of lives and property,” he said.
