A Nigerian soldier has been arrested by military authorities after he appeared in full military uniform during a TikTok live session and solicited money from popular content creator King Pedro, claiming he had not eaten. The arrest follows a viral video that drew widespread attention and criticism.
The soldier, who said he had served in the Nigerian Army for five years and was attached to the Nigerian Army Aviation Hangar in Minna, Niger State, was reportedly taken into custody at the 234 Battalion in Badagry, Lagos State, where he was staying at the time. The incident occurred during a TikTok live broadcast in which King Pedro asked the soldier whether he had eaten. His response, "Yes sir, I have not eaten," quickly became the most shared moment from the exchange.
Influencer berates soldier for disrespecting uniform
King Pedro did not respond with sympathy. Instead, he publicly berated the soldier for appearing in uniform to solicit money online. "You have been in the Army for five years, and you are wearing military uniform to come on live stream to beg for money. You don't have respect for that uniform," King Pedro said during the live session. He went further, calling for the soldier to face military discipline.
"They should lock you up and court-martial you. You are not supposed to wear Nigerian Army uniform and come on live stream begging for money. If you want to beg, wear civilian clothes. Don't disgrace the Nigerian Army," he added.
Viral video triggers divided reactions
The arrest, according to reports, followed the video going viral and drawing the attention of military authorities. The incident has divided Nigerians online. Some condemned the soldier's conduct, arguing that appearing in uniform to solicit funds publicly was a violation of military decorum. Others blamed the country's economic conditions, questioning why a serving soldier with five years of service could not afford a meal.
Neither the Nigerian Army nor King Pedro had issued an official statement on the matter at the time of writing. The soldier's identity has not been officially disclosed, and the military has not confirmed the arrest publicly.
Military discipline and public perception
This incident raises questions about the conduct of military personnel on social media and the challenges faced by soldiers in Nigeria. While the military has strict codes of conduct regarding uniform use, the economic pressures on service members have become a topic of public debate. The case has also highlighted the influence of social media in holding public officials and military personnel accountable.
As the story develops, many Nigerians are watching to see how the military handles the situation. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are treated in the future, particularly in an era where social media interactions can quickly become public controversies.
