By Seun Opejobi
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the dismissal of two soldiers involved in an alleged theft of armoured cables from the premises of Dangote Refinery in Lagos State.
The two soldiers, Corporal Innocent Joseph and Lance Corporal Jacob Gani, were dismissed with immediate effect and also handed over to other security agencies for prosecution.
A statement by Army’s spokesman Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, said the two soldiers carried out the incident on April 14.
The statement reads: “In line with the Nigerian Army’s (NA) commitment to upholding high standard of professionalism, integrity and discipline, the NA wishes to update the general public on the outcome of the investigation into the alleged theft of armoured cables at the Dangote Refinery premises on 14th April 2024, involving Corporal Innocent Joseph and Lance Corporal Jacob Gani.
“Sequel to a thorough investigation conducted in collaboration with the management of the company, the two soldiers were found to have abandoned their duty post and to be in unauthorized possession of the materials. Subsequently, they were both charged for failure to perform military duties punishable under Section 57, subsection (1) and other civil offenses punishable under Section 114, subsection (1) of the Armed Forces Act CAP A20, the Law of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
“They were summarily tried. During the trial, the evidence against them was presented and they were given the opportunity to present their cases and defend themselves, but were, however, found guilty of the charges leveled against them in accordance with military laws.
“As a demonstration of NA’s zero-tolerance for misconduct and criminality within its ranks, the two soldiers have been dismissed from the NA with immediate effect and handed over to relevant authorities for further prosecution.”
The Army said their dismissal was in line with its “resoluteness in maintaining its institutional integrity and reputation.”
