Sahara Reporters, through its official X handle, has shed light on the plight of a Nigerian Army corporal who has been left to fend for himself after sustaining a life-altering spinal cord injury in 2020 while on active duty. The soldier’s emotional plea from his hospital bed has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the military’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel.
In a heart-wrenching video shared online, the corporal recounted his ordeal, revealing how he was abandoned without adequate medical care or financial support following the incident. Despite serving his country with unwavering dedication, the soldier now finds himself battling not only his physical condition but also the emotional trauma of being forgotten by the institution he once served with pride.
The injury, sustained during a duty assignment, left the soldier immobilized, requiring specialized medical attention and long-term care. However, his appeals for assistance have reportedly fallen on deaf ears. He alleged that the military has failed to cover his medical expenses, provide rehabilitation, or offer the financial support necessary for his recovery and sustenance.
“This is not the life I imagined after serving my country,” the corporal lamented. “I gave my all for the Nigerian Army, but now, in my time of greatest need, I’ve been abandoned.”
The soldier’s story has sparked a wave of criticism from Nigerians on social media, with many questioning the government’s treatment of its wounded heroes. Advocacy groups and concerned citizens have called for immediate intervention, urging the Nigerian Army and relevant authorities to take responsibility and provide the corporal with the care and support he desperately needs.
This revelation underscores a broader issue within Nigeria’s armed forces regarding the welfare of injured and retired personnel. Critics argue that neglecting the sacrifices of soldiers could discourage commitment among active-duty officers and weaken morale across the ranks.
As the public outcry grows, the Nigerian Army is under increasing pressure to respond and address the allegations of neglect. Many are demanding systemic reforms to ensure that no soldier, especially those injured in the line of duty, is left behind.
The courage of this corporal to speak out, despite his condition, serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces. It also raises a pressing question: if those who put their lives on the line to defend the nation are neglected, what does it say about the value placed on their service?
The Nigerian Army is yet to issue an official statement addressing the corporal’s claims. Meanwhile, calls for justice and accountability for the country’s wounded warriors grow louder by the day.
PIONEER NEWS 