‘Forgive me’ – Woman apologises to Army over ₦2m corpse repatriation claim

By Enitan Abdultawab

A Nigerian woman, who recently accused the Nigerian Army of demanding ₦2 million before releasing the body of her late brother, has publicly apologised, admitting that the allegation stemmed from a misunderstanding.

In an emotional video that circulated on social media, the woman had expressed grief over the death of her brother, a soldier who had served in the Nigerian Army since the age of 20. She claimed that military authorities informed the family they would need to pay ₦2 million before his remains could be brought home for burial.

The allegation sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the claim.

However, in a follow-up video, the woman retracted her statement and apologised to the Nigerian Army, explaining that the issue resulted from a communication breakdown regarding expenses incurred abroad.

According to her, her brother later contacted her and clarified the situation.

“It was a miscommunication from Benin to here. We misunderstood everything they said, and everything has been resolved,” she said.

The woman explained that there was never a demand for ₦2 million from the Nigerian Army, adding that officials had only made reference to certain expenses related to arrangements overseas.

“There was no demand for ₦2 million. They only had a reference of expenses over there. It was just a miscommunication,” she stated.

The woman admitted that her earlier remarks were made during an emotional period for her family as they struggled to come to terms with the loss of their loved one.

“I want to apologise to the Nigerian Army for dragging them into this. It was an emotional moment for me and my family because it was painful to have a brother who passed on and we could not even see his face before he was buried,” she said.

Offering a direct apology, she added: “I am so sorry. Please forgive me for the misconception and misinterpretation.”

The clarification has since eased concerns raised by the initial allegation, with the woman expressing regret over the misunderstanding and the impact of her comments on the Nigerian Army.