The Nigerian Armed Forces have introduced a revised code of conduct explicitly banning military personnel from engaging in acts considered contrary to the ethics and values of the armed forces. These include homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, body piercing, and tattoos. The directive is part of the updated Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service (HATCOS), which President Bola Tinubu signed on December 16, 2024.

The revised code also prohibits personnel from disorderly behavior, drunkenness, amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses, and engaging in private business ventures.

New Rules on Personal Conduct

Section 26 of the revised HATCOS lays out specific guidelines for the personal conduct of military personnel. It states:

• Ban on LGBTQ+ Activities and Cross-Dressing: Military officers are expressly prohibited from participating in activities related to homosexuality, lesbianism, or bestiality. They are also barred from affiliating with or engaging in any LGBTQIA2S+ groups or activities and from cross-dressing.
• No Body Piercings or Tattoos: Personnel are not allowed to have tattoos or body piercings of any kind. The ban underscores the military’s emphasis on maintaining uniformity and discipline.
• Disorderly Behavior and Drunkenness: Officers are prohibited from disorderly conduct, public brawls, or actions that could cause disgrace. Additionally, being intoxicated, whether on or off duty, is strictly forbidden.

Restrictions on Relationships and Financial Conduct

The code sets strict boundaries regarding personal relationships and financial responsibilities:

• Amorous Relationships: Officers are barred from engaging in romantic relationships with subordinates or the spouses of other personnel. This rule aims to prevent power imbalances and conflicts of interest within the ranks.
• Financial Obligations: Personnel must pay all legal and financial obligations, such as vehicle licenses and insurance, in a timely manner. Issuing dud checks or neglecting financial duties is considered a serious offense.

Prohibition of Secret Society Membership and Political Activity

To preserve the military’s apolitical stance and ethical integrity:

• No Membership in Secret Societies or Political Parties: Officers are forbidden from joining secret societies or political parties. Participation in their activities, even in an observatory role, is prohibited. However, cultural and traditional religious societies are excluded from this restriction, provided their activities are not secretive.

Private Business Ventures and Gift Acceptances

The code also places limitations on personal business activities and receiving favors:

• No Private Businesses: Military officers are not allowed to engage in private commercial enterprises. Government property, rank, and connections cannot be used for personal or financial gain.
• Gifts and Favors: Accepting gifts, favors, or entertainment from junior officers or subordinates is prohibited to avoid favoritism and maintain professional boundaries.

Unspecified Disciplinary Measures

While the new directives outline detailed prohibitions, the specific penalties for violating these rules were not included in the document. However, past practices in the Nigerian military suggest that breaches of such guidelines could result in court-martial, dismissal, or other disciplinary measures.

Context and Implications

This new set of rules reflects the military’s efforts to maintain a disciplined, professional, and apolitical force. The prohibition of LGBTQIA+ activities aligns with Nigeria’s broader legal framework, which criminalizes same-sex relationships under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2014.

Critics argue that such strict measures could limit personal freedoms and create an atmosphere of fear within the armed forces. Proponents, however, see the updated code as a necessary step to uphold the institution’s integrity and moral values.

Final Thoughts

The updated ethics code represents a significant overhaul of the Nigerian Armed Forces’ operational standards. While its implementation aims to enhance discipline and professionalism, the lack of clarity on enforcement and disciplinary measures leaves questions about its practical application.

As the Nigerian military continues to play a crucial role in addressing security challenges across the country, adherence to these rules will likely be closely monitored and tested in the coming months.