Who Is Corporal Amina Maidoki In Military Custody?

Corporal Amina Sani Maidoki, a Nigerian Army soldier, is at the center of a controversy involving the alleged theft of $50,000 linked to Salamatu Faruk Yahaya, wife of the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya (retd).

The Nigerian Army, led by Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, is overseeing the investigation.

Maidoki’s family and media outlets have also raised concerns about her detention.

Who is Corporal Amina Maidoki and What Happened

Amina Maidoki, a 25 years old Corporal in the Nigerian Army, was currently detained in April 2025 following allegations of stealing $50,000 connected to Salamatu Yahaya.

She was initially held at the Yahayas’ private residence before being transferred to the guardroom at General Yakubu Gowon Barracks, Abuja.

Reports emerged alleging that Maidoki faced harassment, inhumane treatment, and denial of family visits.

The Nigerian Army confirmed her detention on May 27, 2025, stating it is part of an ongoing investigation into conduct inconsistent with military values, including the alleged theft.

What the Law Says

The Nigerian Army’s actions are guided by the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004), which outlines procedures for handling allegations against military personnel.

The Act allows for temporary detention during investigations, provided it adheres to military regulations and ethical standards.

The Army insists that Maidoki’s detention complies with these legal provisions, ensuring procedural fairness and respect for her rights.

What The Army Says

In a statement issued on May 27, 2025, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, confirmed that Corporal Amina Maidoki is “currently under investigation in connection with allegations of conduct inconsistent with the core values of the Nigerian Army, including but not limited to allegation of theft.”

She emphasized that “her temporary detention is in accordance with the lawful procedures stipulated for service personnel,” citing that the Nigerian Army is “guided by extant provisions of the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004), internal regulations, and the highest standards of military ethics.”

Responding to reports of abuse and rights violations, the Army stated: “The Nigerian Army categorically denies any allegation of unlawful detention, or denial of legal representation. All such claims are false and are rendered simply to mislead the public and draw undue sentiments.”

Lt. Col. Anele further added that “disciplinary measures within the Nigerian Army are not arbitrary. They are governed by due process, and all personnel are entitled to procedural fairness.” She assured the public that Maidoki “continues to receive appropriate welfare in line with military standards” and that the case is being handled “with the utmost regard for Corporal Maidoki’s legal and human rights.”
They also expressed sympathy for her family’s concerns but maintained that the process aligns with operational and investigative standards.

What The Family Says

Maidoki’s family alleges that her detention is illegal and that she has been subjected to torture and inhumane treatment without formal charges or a court process.

They claim she has been denied family visits and that the case lacks transparency, questioning why she has not been charged to court if guilty.

A family source stated, “Even if they think she stole the money, why not charge her in court? Why torture her and hold her like a criminal without any proof?”

What’s Next?

The Nigerian Army has stated that the investigation into Corporal Maidoki’s case is ongoing, with a commitment to fairness and adherence to military law. It remains unclear whether the case will proceed to a court-martial or civilian court, or if further evidence will be disclosed to substantiate the allegations.

Maidoki’s family and media outlets are likely to continue pressing for transparency and accountability, while the Army has invited lawful communication to address concerns within the bounds of military procedure.

The outcome of the investigation will determine Maidoki’s fate and could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the Nigerian military.