The Nigerian Army has rewarded a soldier, Private Utim Terwase, with N500,000 for rejecting an alleged bribe offered by a suspected notorious kidnapper in exchange for his release.
TNT understands that the reward was approved by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), Major General Maxwell Dangana, in recognition of the soldier’s integrity and commitment to duty.
Military sources disclosed that Private Terwase apprehended the suspect following an attempted escape but turned down the money allegedly offered to secure his release and instead handed him over to the appropriate authorities.
The award was presented on behalf of the GOC by the Commander of Sector 6, Colonel Philimon Malgwi, while the operation’s spokesman, Captain Polycarp Chinonso Oteh, confirmed the development.
Major General Dangana, through Colonel Malgwi, praised the soldier for placing his professional responsibility above personal gain, describing his conduct as a reflection of the highest standards of military professionalism, loyalty and discipline.
He said the N500,000 reward was equivalent to the amount the soldier reportedly rejected as a bribe.
The GOC said Private Terwase’s action demonstrated honesty, accountability and selfless service, urging other military personnel to emulate his exemplary conduct.
He reaffirmed Operation Enduring Peace’s commitment to promoting ethical conduct, accountability and professionalism among troops, stressing that personnel must discharge their constitutional responsibilities with integrity and dedication.
