LAGOS, Nigeria – The Nigerian Army has confirmed the detention of two of its soldiers in connection with an alleged theft of armoured cables at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos.
This incident, as reported by army officials, has raised significant concerns about the involvement of military personnel in criminal activities.
In a statement on Thursday, April 18, 2024, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the army spokesman, the incident was thwarted by “the proactive intervention of vigilant troops and private security operatives on duty at the refinery.”
Major General Nwachukwu emphasised that such conduct is “totally unacceptable and highly regrettable” and does not reflect the Nigerian Army’s values and ethical standards.
The two soldiers allegedly involved were reportedly manipulated by a civilian contractor, known only as Mr. Smart.
This individual allegedly hired the soldiers to recover some armoured cables he claimed were left behind at the refinery.
However, as the group approached a security checkpoint, Mr. Smart fled the scene, leaving the soldiers to face the consequences alone.
General Nwachukwu expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that it “does not represent the ethics and values of the Nigerian Army.”
He assured that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the soldiers’ involvement.
The stolen cables have been recovered and secured, and the army is working in close collaboration with the management of Dangote Refinery to fully investigate the matter.
Major General Nwachukwu reassured the public that the army remains committed to maintaining discipline and integrity among its ranks and that appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against those found culpable.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in ensuring that the key values of discipline and integrity are adequately entrenched amongst its personnel,” Nwachukwu added, promising continued efforts to promote a culture of accountability and ethical behaviour within the military.
