Detained female soldier in romantic relationship with corps member let off the hook

The Nigerian military authorities have ordered the release of the detained female soldier, Hannah Sofiat, who openly accepted love overtures from a male corps member at Yikpata, Kwara State.

Persecondnews.com recalls that the two lovebirds were spotted in a video clip that went viral on the social media while at the National Youth Service Corps Orientation Camp at Yikpata, last week.

Sofiat has been detained by the authorities for allegedly violating military rules and regulations by engaging in an amorous relationship with a para-military trainee – a corps member.

Lawyers, civil society groups and well-meaning Nigerians had called on the  Army authorities to release the female soldier.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, is believed to have ordered her release immediately in the true spirit of Yuletide.

He had intervened and said that she should be pardoned.

“The female soldier had been warned and reprimanded for breaching the extant rule guiding the conduct of military personnel.

“The soldier has been forgiven and freed from detention to join her family and friends to celebrate Christmas.

“This is in line with the COAS vision to have a Professional Nigerian Army Ready to Accomplish Assigned Missions within a Joint Environment in Defence of Nigeria,” Yahaya was quoted as saying.

A dependable source also confirmed: “The military authorities have considered the plea of the COAS and said she be released forthwith. Before the end of the day, she should have reunited with her family. ”

Contacted for his official comment, the Army spokesperson, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, said: “I can confirm to you that an order has been made for the soldier to be freed and enjoy the Christmas with her family and friends with a serious warning for her not to repeat such act again.’’