The Nigerian Army has confirmed the detention of Corporal Amina Sani Maidoki in connection with the alleged disappearance of $50,000 belonging to Mrs. Salamatu Faruk Yahaya, wife of the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya (retd).
In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 27, and signed by Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army defended Maidoki’s detention, describing it as lawful and in accordance with military regulations.
The Army said Maidoki is under investigation for alleged conduct “inconsistent with the core values of the Nigerian Army,” including theft, and emphasized that her detention follows the provisions of the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004).
“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,” the statement read. “Her temporary detention is in accordance with the lawful procedures stipulated for service personnel.”
The Army’s response follows public outcry and a report by SaharaReporters that exposed Maidoki’s arrest in April. She was allegedly first held at the private residence of the Yahaya family before being moved to a guardroom at General Yakubu Gowon Barracks, Abuja.
Family sources claimed she has been denied family visits and subjected to inhumane treatment, with no formal charges brought against her in a civil court.
“She is still under illegal detention,” a relative told SaharaReporters. “Why not charge her in court if they believe she stole the money?”
However, the Army refuted allegations of abuse and unlawful detention, dismissing claims of rights violations as false and intended to “mislead the public and draw undue sentiments.”
“All such claims are false,” the Army said. “The ongoing investigation 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.”
The statement further assured the public that disciplinary processes in the Army are not arbitrary and that Maidoki is entitled to procedural fairness under military law.
“The Nigerian Army acknowledges the concerns of Corporal Maidoki’s family and sympathizes with the emotional toll this may cause,” the statement concluded. “The NA remains open to lawful communication and engagement provided such interactions align with the operational and investigative procedures currently in place.”
As of press time, no formal charges had been filed against Corporal Maidoki in a civilian court, and the investigation remains ongoing.
