Troops Allege Extortion Scheme at Bauchi Military Checkpoints

Troops Allege Extortion Scheme at Bauchi Military Checkpoints

Soldiers attached to the 133 Special Forces Battalion in Azare, Katagum Local Government Area of Bauchi State, have raised allegations of financial misconduct against their Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. A.K. Kachalla.

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According to multiple sources within the unit, troops deployed at checkpoints were allegedly compelled to remit weekly financial “returns” running into hundreds of thousands of naira, with figures reportedly reaching as high as ₦500,000. The soldiers claimed that failure to meet the demanded amounts often attracted threats of redeployment to less favourable postings.

The affected personnel alleged that the payments were sourced from checkpoint activities and enforced through intimidation, creating what they described as a culture of fear among junior ranks.

One soldier, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the practice has negatively affected morale and professionalism within the unit, adding that many personnel feel trapped between operational duties and financial pressure.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Nigerian Army or Lt. Col. Kachalla regarding the allegations.

Military observers have repeatedly stressed the importance of accountability and welfare within the armed forces, noting that transparency remains critical to sustaining troop morale and public confidence, especially amid ongoing security challenges across the country.

Troops Allege Extortion Scheme at Bauchi Military Checkpoints