Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has denied a report claiming that he urged members of the Armed Forces to reject any salary increase until after the elections.
Obi described the statement attributed to him as false.
He said he had consistently supported better welfare, equipment and protection for military personnel serving under difficult conditions.
The former Anambra State governor said national security personnel deserved adequate resources and institutional support.
He referred to previous incidents involving military casualties to reinforce his position that soldiers should not be left without assistance when facing serious threats.
Obi said the welfare, safety and dignity of military personnel would be priorities under a government led by him.
He urged Nigerians to disregard the disputed report.
The presidential candidate said those responsible for national security should receive strong public and government support rather than be treated as a secondary concern.
