By Abiola Olawale
The Nigerian Army on Monday, April 22, announced the dismissal of two soldiers, Corporal Innocent Joseph, and Lance Corporal Jacob Gani, who were accused of stealing armoured cables at the Dangote refinery in Lagos.
The two soldiers were accused of entering the Dangote facility in an Acura Jeep on April 14, 2024, carting away about 897 armoured cables.
The spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, in a statement on Monday explained that the two soldiers were found to have abandoned their duty post and “to be in unauthorised possession of the (897 armoured cables) materials.”
Nwachukwu also confirmed that a thorough investigation had been conducted by relevant authorities before the decision to dismiss the two soldiers was reached.
The statement reads: “In line with the Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding high standards 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 April 14, 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 unauthorised possession of the materials.
“Subsequently, they were both charged with Failure to Perform Military Duties punishable under section 57, sub-section (1), and Other Civil Offences punishable under section 114, sub-section (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 allowed to present their cases and defend themselves.
“They were, however, found guilty of the charges levelled 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.”
