Army Concerned About Alleged Involvement Of Soldiers In Theft At Dangote Refinery

The Nigerian Army (NA) has said that it is deeply concerned about the alleged involvement of two of its personnel in a reported case of theft at the Dangote Refinery in Lagos.

In a statement on Wednesday, the army said this act of criminality, which was prevented by the proactive intervention of vigilant troops and private security operatives on duty at the refinery, is totally unacceptable and highly regrettable.

“It does not, therefore, represent the ethics and values of the NA,” Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, stressed in communique on behalf of the army.

According to the military’s spokesman, the two suspects have been identified and are currently under custody.

Preliminary investigation reveals that the two suspects were hired by a civilian contractor simply identified as Mr Smart, who claimed he wanted to recover some Armoured cables he had left behind on the refinery’s premises.

Unknown to the soldiers, the said contractor, sensing trouble as they approached the security post, excused himself from the vehicle and bolted, leaving them behind.

Further investigations are ongoing to fully ascertain the depth of culpability of the apprehended soldiers. Additionally, the stolen cables have been recovered and are in safe custody.

The army says it is working closely with the management of the Dangote Refinery to ensure a thorough investigation into this unfortunate incident.

General Nwachukwu on behalf of the army reassured the general public that appropriate disciplinary measures would be meted out to the culprits, as no act of criminality will be condoned amongst its personnel.

He noted that the Nigeria Army remains steadfast in ensuring that the key values of discipline and integrity are adequately entrenched amongst its personnel.

“We shall also continue to cultivate and promote dedication and a culture of accountability and ethical behaviours within our ranks,” General Nwachukwu buttressed.