Detained Female Soldier Under Probe Over Alleged Theft, Army Clarifies

The Nigerian Army (NA) has disclosed that one Corporal Amina Sani Maidoki was being detained for investigation bordering on allegations of theft.

LEADERSHIP reports that Corporal Maidoki has been detained for allegedly stealing USD50,000 belonging to Mrs. Salamatu Yahaya, the wife of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya (retired).

Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele in a statement said Corporal Maidoki was under investigation in connection with allegations of conduct inconsistent with the core values of the Nigerian Army, including but not limited to allegation of theft.

The statement however, did not mention the personalities involved or what was stolen.

Anele explained that the Nigerian Army as a professional military institution is guided by extant provisions of the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004), internal regulations, and the highest standards of military ethics.

“Consequently, her temporary detention is in accordance with the lawful procedures stipulated for service personnel.

“It is important to note that disciplinary measures within the Nigerian Army are not arbitrary. They are governed by due process, and all personnel are entitled to procedural fairness.

“The ongoing investigation into this matter is being conducted with the utmost regard for Corporal Maidoki’s legal and human rights, and she continues to receive appropriate welfare in line with military standards.

“The Nigerian Army categorically denies any allegation of unlawful detention, or denial of legal representation. All such claims are false and are rendered simply to mislead the public and draw undue sentiments. We therefore encourage the general public to disregard such false submissions,” the statement said.

The Nigerian Army acknowledged the concerns of Corporal Maidoki’s family, saying it sympathised with the emotional toll this may cause.

The Army assured that it remained open to lawful communication and engagement provided such interactions aligned with the operational and investigative procedures currently in place.

“The Nigerian Army ensures that the rights of all accused are respected irrespective of the persons involved. However, no individual is above the law or exempt from military discipline.

“Allegations of misconduct must be addressed thoroughly and lawfully to preserve the integrity, cohesion, and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army,” it added.

The statement therefore urged members of the public and media to refrain from speculative commentary and allow the ongoing internal processes to run without interference.

It assured that updates will be provided at the appropriate time, in line with it commitment to transparency and accountability.