The Nigeria Army has dismissed two soldiers — Corporal Innocent Joseph and Lance Corporal Jacob Gani for stealing cable at Dangote Refinery premises on 14th April 2024.
Director Army Public Relations, Maj-Gen Onyema Nwachukwu in a statement issued Monday said their dismissal was seequel to a thorough investigation conducted in collaboration with the management of the company.
He added that the two soldiers were found to have abandoned their duty post and to be in unauthorised possession of the materials.
Nwachukwu noted: “In line with 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.
“Subsequently, they were both charged for Failure to Perform Military Duties punishable under Section 57(1) and Other Civil Offences punishable under section 114(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 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. “
Nwachukwu added that this decisive action underscores the army’s resoluteness in maintaining its institutional integrity and reputation.