Abia State Government Clarifies Support for Soldier Amidst N114 Million Fraud Allegations
The Abia State Government has shed light on its earlier commitment to support Sergeant Simon Amoke, a Nigerian soldier now facing serious accusations of fraud amounting to N114 million. Officials have clarified that the governor’s pledge was rooted in humanitarian considerations rather than any endorsement of the soldier’s alleged illicit activities.
Sergeant Amoke, reportedly a member of the Nigerian Army Engineers Corps stationed in Lagos, was apprehended at the Port Harcourt International Airport. Security sources indicate his arrest was part of an operation conducted by troops from the 14 Brigade and 6 Division Provost units, following intelligence that linked him to extensive fraudulent dealings. His attempt to flee to Abuja at the time of his capture further fueled the investigation.
Allegations of Deception and Misleading Government Officials
Investigations by army authorities have revealed a concerning pattern of alleged deception by Sergeant Amoke. Reports suggest he purportedly misled Abia State Government officials by falsely claiming to be a key operative involved in the 2010 operation that resulted in the demise of a notorious gang leader known as “Osisikankwu.” It was based on this misrepresented involvement that the government initially extended recognition and promised financial and medical assistance.
A Compassionate Approach to Citizen Support
Ferdinand Ekeoma, a media aide to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, emphasized in a statement that the governor’s promises of support to Sergeant Amoke were purely on compassionate grounds. He stated that this aligns with the current administration’s commitment to a benevolent approach, which has seen the government provide similar assistance to numerous citizens facing hardship.
Mr. Ekeoma cited previous instances where the governor offered financial aid to families of fallen heroes. This included support for the family of a naval personnel who tragically lost her life in an accident in Aba, and an immigration officer who was allegedly killed by his wife within the state.
- Support for Families of Deceased Personnel:
- Financial assistance was provided to the family of a naval officer who died in an accident in Aba.
- Aid was also extended to the family of an immigration officer allegedly murdered by his spouse.
Mr. Ekeoma stressed that all such cases, including many others not detailed here, underwent thorough investigation before any financial support was disbursed.
Basis for Support to Sergeant Amoke
Regarding Sergeant Amoke’s specific situation, Mr. Ekeoma reiterated that the Abia State Government’s promise of financial and medical aid was contingent on verifying certain facts. The government had established that the army personnel had indeed served in Abia and had sustained an injury during his service. An Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) had brought him to the Abia State Government seeking medical assistance for these injuries.
The media aide further highlighted that upon receiving information about the alleged fraud involving Sergeant Amoke, the Abia State Government formally requested that due diligence be conducted on the soldier. While acknowledging that investigating corruption cases falls outside the purview of the state government, Mr. Ekeoma suggested that this request for due diligence may have inadvertently triggered the operation that led to the soldier’s arrest, which occurred shortly after his visit to the governor.
Government’s Stance on Discipline and Humanitarian Aid
The Abia State Government has unequivocally stated its full support for any legitimate actions undertaken by the Nigerian Army to discipline Sergeant Amoke and ensure justice is served. However, the government remains committed to its humanitarian principles.
“While the government is in full support of every legitimate action being taken by the Nigerian Army to discipline this erring personnel and ensure that justice is served to the fullest,” Mr. Ekeoma stated, “the government shall continue to offer financial, medical and other humanitarian support to victims of all kinds of misfortune, where and when necessary, notwithstanding the controversies surrounding Sergeant Amoke’s case.”
This stance underscores the government’s dual commitment to upholding the law and providing assistance to those in genuine need, irrespective of the complications that may arise in individual cases. The government’s actions are guided by a desire to act compassionately while also respecting the due processes of law enforcement and military justice.
