ARMY CONFIRMS DETENTION OF FEMALE SOLDIER OVER MISSING 50,000 DOLLARS BELONGING TO WIFE OF FORMER COAS

The Nigerian Army has finally confirmed that Corporal Amina Sani Maidoki is being detained in connection with an ongoing investigation into the disappearance of $50,000 linked to Salamatu Faruk Yahaya, wife of the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya (retd).

This was stated in a press statement issued on May 27, 2025, and signed by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations.

The statement defended Amina’s detention and dismissed allegations of violations of her fundamental human rights.

The Army’s statement reads: “The Nigerian Army (NA) acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the case of Corporal Amina Sani Maidoki, who is currently in detention following allegations of theft. We understand the sentimental emotions it has stirred within the public and the media. However, it is imperative to set the records straight in the spirit of fairness.

“Essentially, Corporal Maidoki is currently under investigation in connection with allegations of conduct inconsistent with the core values of the Nigerian Army, including but not limited to allegation of theft. As a professional military institution, the NA is guided by extant provisions of the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004), internal regulations, and the highest standards of military ethics. Consequently, her temporary detention is in accordance with the lawful procedures stipulated for service personnel.”

The statement follows SaharaReporters’ exposure of how the soldier was arrested on the orders of Mrs. Salamatu Yahaya in April.

The female soldier was first detained at the couple’s private residence and later moved to the guardroom at General Yakubu Gowon Barracks, Abuja.

Sources told SaharaReporters that Amina had been denied visits from her family, harassed by military officials, and subjected to inhumane treatment in custody.

Family members claimed that the case has been mishandled and that there is no formal investigation by police authorities or any court process to determine Maidoki’s guilt or innocence.

“She is still under illegal detention,” a family source told SaharaReporters. “Even if they think she stole the money, why not charge her in court? Why torture her and hold her like a criminal without any proof?”

But reacting, the Army dismissed claims of abuse and denied that Amina was being denied her legal rights.

“The Nigerian Army categorically denies any allegation of unlawful detention, or denial of legal representation. All such claims are false and are rendered simply to mislead the public and draw undue sentiments. We therefore encourage the general public to disregard such false submissions,” the statement added.

The Army further stated that Maidoki’s case is being handled with “utmost regard” for due process and military discipline.

“It is important to note that disciplinary measures within the Nigerian Army are not arbitrary,” Lt. Col. Anele said.

“They are governed by due process, and all personnel are entitled to procedural fairness. The ongoing investigation into this matter is being conducted with the utmost regard for Corporal Maidoki’s legal and human rights, and she continues to receive appropriate welfare in line with military standards.”

“In every way, the Nigerian Army acknowledges the concerns of Corporal Maidoki’s family and sympathizes with the emotional toll this may cause. The NA remains open to lawful communication and engagement provided such interactions align with the operational and investigative procedures currently in place,” the statement added.