Navy Dismissed Petty Officer Over Theft

M Nasiru, a Petty Officer (PO) in the Nigerian Navy, faced dismissal for theft. A military communication, as observed by SaharaReporters, revealed that the discharged serviceman purportedly pilfered belongings from a retired Naval rating who had offered accommodation to him and his family in Lokoja, Kogi State. His expulsion reportedly adhered to the stipulations of the 1999 constitution as amended, the Armed Forces Act (Rules of Procedure) 1972, and other prevailing legislations.

The document detailed the allegations against him: "Accused and charged for stealing the following items: 30 pieces of wrappers and 3 veils, 1 Maxi generator, 40 empty gallons of 25 liters, all valued at 600,000." These items were allegedly taken from the residence of Mrs. Jumai Idris, who graciously housed him and his family in her three-bedroom apartment in Lokoja town, free of charge.

Mrs. Idris, a retired rating currently employed in Abuja, upon her return, noticed the missing items. Despite her efforts to contact the PO, who had already vacated the premises, she was unable to reach him. Consequently, she reported the incident to the naval authorities to aid in the recovery of her belongings.

This incident follows shortly after the dismissal of Lance Corporal Jonah Comfort, a female soldier with service number 15NA/74/4422F, who allegedly stole gold jewelry valued at N35 million from the wife of an army general.