The Nigerian Army (NA) said it detained a female soldier, Corporal Amina Maidoki, following allegations of theft and misconduct.
In a statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt-Col Appolonia Anele, the Army said Maidoki has since been subjected to investigation in connection with allegations of conduct inconsistent with the core values of the Nigerian Army, including but not limited to the allegation of theft.
As a professional military institution, the NA 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 statement read.
The Army denied 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 Army said.
The Army said that updates on the investigation would be provided at the appropriate time and urged the public to refrain from speculative commentary.
The Army also acknowledged the concerns of Maidoki’s family, assuring 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, the statement concluded.
