Crime & SecurityNewsNigeriaSoldiers Caught with Dangote Refinery Cables Dismissed

Two soldiers, Corporal Innocent Joseph and Lance Corporal Jacob Gani, have been dismissed from the Nigerian Army for their involvement in the disappearance of armoured cables at the Dangote Refinery in Lagos.

The Nigerian Army confirmed the dismissal in a statement on Monday, 22nd April, 2024. The soldiers were apprehended on 14th April after being caught with a large quantity of cut-to-size armoured cables at the refinery’s main gate.

According to a statement by the Army Public Relations Director, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, a thorough investigation was conducted in collaboration with the Dangote Refinery management. The investigation revealed that the soldiers had abandoned their duty post and were in “unauthorised possession” of the cables.

Following a summary trial, the soldiers were found guilty of “failing to perform military duties” in accordance with the Armed Forces Act. They were dismissed from the army and handed over to the relevant authorities for further prosecution.

Major General Nwachukwu emphasised that their dismissal serves as a clear message of the Nigerian Army’s “zero-tolerance for misconduct and criminality within its ranks.” The Army maintains its commitment to upholding its “institutional integrity and reputation.”