The Nigerian Army and the Defence Headquarters late last night poured cold water on the apprehension arising from the news of the retirement of 31 Generals. The story was broken online last night by News Express.

Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, and Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, later confirmed the story but explained that there was nothing to worry about as what happened yesterday was a routine army practice.

Colonel Usman told News Express that the 17 Major Generals and 14 Brigadier Generals were those whose last units were the Ministry of Defence (MOD), Defence Headquarters (DHQ) and Army Headquarters (AHQ).

“Most of them retired since last year and some of them retired voluntarily. It was only the pulling out ceremony and farewell lunch that took place today,” he said, adding that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, “decided as part of tradition and regimentation to honour them.”

On his part, Maj.-Gen. Olukolade told News Express: “This is not a recent occurrence. It was only being celebrated today. Among them are people who have retired over a year ago. Please it is important to note this.”

•Photo shows Army Chief, Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah.