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Army boss orders release of detained romantic female soldier
By Ibrahim Adeleke
Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, on Saturday, ordered the immediate release of a detained female soldier, Hannah Sofiat.
Sofiat had in a viral video clip accepted a marriage proposal from a male corps member at the National Youth Service Corps Orientation Camp in Yikpata, Kwara.
The female soldier was later arrested and detained for ‘violating military rules and regulations’ by getting involved in a public display of an amorous relationship with a paramilitary trainee – a corps member.
The female soldier’s detention generated reactions from Nigerians who believed she should not be denied the right to love.
Many Nigerians and groups had appealed to the Nigerian Army to release the female soldier.
Military sources, however, on Saturday, hinted that the Chief of Army staff had intervened and asked that the female soldier be pardoned.
It was learnt that the Army boss took the decision in the spirit of Christmas.
Our correspondent learnt that the female soldier had been warned and reprimanded for breaching the extant rule guiding the conduct of military personnel.
The female soldier was said to have been forgiven and released to join her family and friends to celebrate Christmas.
Military sources said this was in line with the COAS’ vision to have a professional Army ready to accomplish assigned missions within a joint environment in defence of Nigeria.
Army Director of Information, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, has confirmed the development.
“What you are being told is correct,” Nwachukwu said.
