Sahara Reporters has taken to it’s official X handle and announced that, the Nigerian Army has officially confirmed the detention of Corporal Amina Sani Maidoki over the alleged disappearance of a staggering $50,000 reportedly linked to Salamatu Faruk Yahaya, wife of the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (retd).
The confirmation, made public through a statement issued on May 27, 2025, and signed by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, marks a dramatic twist in a case that has ignited widespread public interest and controversy over human rights and military discipline.
While dismissing reports of illegal detention and rights violations, the Army insists Maidoki’s confinement is “lawful and procedural,” grounded in the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004) and the Nigerian Army’s internal code of conduct.
“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,” the statement reads. “We understand the emotional reactions this case has stirred. However, it is imperative to set the records straight in the spirit of fairness.”
The Army emphasized that Maidoki is being investigated for conduct allegedly “inconsistent with the core values” of the military, particularly theft. Her continued detention, they stress, aligns with due process under military law.
The controversy erupted after an exclusive report by SaharaReporters exposed how Corporal Maidoki was arrested in April on the alleged orders of Mrs. Salamatu Yahaya. The soldier was initially detained at the Yahaya family’s private residence before being transferred to the guardroom at General Yakubu Gowon Barracks in Abuja.
According to sources close to the matter, the soldier has faced severe hardship since her arrest, including being denied family visits, subjected to intimidation, and allegedly enduring inhumane treatment—accusations the Army now categorically denies.
> “All claims suggesting unlawful detention, torture, or denial of legal representation are completely false,” the Army’s statement asserts. “These are unfounded allegations designed to mislead the public and fuel unnecessary outrage.”
Despite the Army’s reassurances, Maidoki’s family maintains that justice is being denied. According to a relative who spoke to SaharaReporters, there has been no formal police investigation or court appearance to determine her guilt or innocence.
> “She is still under illegal detention,” the family source said. “Even if they suspect she stole the money, why not charge her in a court of law? Why detain and torture her without a shred of proof?”
The family fears that Maidoki is being used as a scapegoat in a larger, murkier web of influence involving high-ranking individuals in the military hierarchy.
In response to the backlash, the Army reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and military justice, stating that disciplinary measures are never taken arbitrarily.
> “The ongoing investigation into this matter is being conducted with the utmost regard for Corporal Maidoki’s legal and human rights,” said Lt. Col. Anele. “She continues to receive appropriate welfare in line with military standards.”
The Army further assured the public and Maidoki’s family that the matter is being handled with seriousness and procedural fairness.
> “We sympathize with the emotional toll this may cause her loved ones and remain open to lawful engagement, provided such interactions respect the investigative protocols currently in place.”
The scandal has sparked widespread calls for greater transparency in military investigations and justice for lower-ranking personnel often caught in the crosshairs of internal power dynamics.
As the Nigerian Army maintains its stance, questions linger: Will Corporal Amina Sani Maidoki receive a fair hearing? Or is this yet another case of the powerful shielding their own while the less privileged pay the price?
Only time—and the courage to pursue justice—will tell.
PIONEER NEWS 