The Nigerian Army said on Sunday that it had begun an investigation into an allegation that some soldiers extorted as much as N300,000 from truck drivers along the Maiduguri-Ngala Road in Borno State.
According to the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Sani Usman, the investigation was ordered by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai.
The military investigation followed some complaints from some motorists plying the road.
Also, a social media user, identified only as DanBorno, had, on Twitter, drawn the attention of the army to the alleged extortion of truck drivers by the military personnel.
DanBorno alleged that there were long queues of trucks along the Maiduguri-Gamboru-Ngala Road, whose drivers were asked to pay N300,000 to the soldiers for escorting them.
The army spokesman said, “The army has noted an allegation of complacency and extortion against soldiers on social media. Consequent upon this, the Chief of Army Staff has ordered an immediate investigation into these allegations.
“We operate within the confines of the laws, code of conduct and rules of engagement. The army will not tolerate any act of misdemeanour by any of its personnel.
“We would like to also call on members of the public, especially affected individuals in Borno State, to cooperate and volunteer information to the investigation team.”
