Nigerian Army allegedly Dismisses Soldier Who Defied Orders to Stop Fire on Boko Haram
By Paul Ebi
In a rare move, the Nigerian Army has dismissed Private Isah Emmanuel of the 16 Brigade Garrison for refusing to obey a ceasefire order during a Boko Haram attack.
According to military sources, the troops were under heavy assault from terrorists at the frontline on 17 November 2025. The commanding officer ordered all personnel to halt firing, likely to avoid further casualties. Private Emmanuel, however, continued to engage the insurgents, citing fear for his life if he stopped. His actions reportedly forced the attackers to retreat.
The army, stressing discipline and chain-of-command, listed his offense as “disobedience to a standing order.” Emmanuel has been formally dismissed, with his army number recorded as 22NA/83/7262.
The incident has sparked public debate on military rules versus individual initiative in combat zones. While some praise Emmanuel’s courage, others argue that adherence to orders is paramount in structured military operations.
This case highlights the complex decisions soldiers face on Nigeria’s volatile frontlines against Boko Haram.
Dismissed Regiment: 16 Brigade GarrisonRank: PrivateName: Isah EmmanuelOffense: Disobedience to standing orderDate: 17/11/2025
