Shock in Abia: Serving Nigerian Soldier Confesses to N4.9m Axe Robbery, Names Accomplice
“A Nigerian Army soldier, “Lance Corporal Chukwu Ebuka,” allegedly confessed to an armed robbery in Abia State involving ₦4.9 million. He admitted using axes and handcuffs, named an accomplice, and described his actions as “illegal,” raising concerns about military discipline.”
“A disturbing incident in Abia State has sparked outrage and renewed concerns about discipline within Nigeria’s military, after a serving soldier was caught and allegedly confessed to a violent robbery involving nearly ₦5 million.”
A serving soldier of the Nigerian Army, identified as “Lance Corporal Chukwu Ebuka,” has allegedly confessed to participating in a robbery operation in Abia State, where a victim was dispossessed of ₦4,999,000.
According to reports by “SaharaReporters,” the suspect claimed to be attached to the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Ohafia.
In a video obtained by the platform, the soldier was seen being interrogated by a superior officer shortly after his apprehension. He was reportedly found in possession of “two axes” and “a pair of handcuffs,” believed to have been used during the operation.
During the interrogation, the suspect appeared uncertain when questioned about his identity and service history but confirmed his name as “Lance Corporal Chukwu Ebuka.”
When asked to assess his actions, he admitted, “It’s very, very wrong of me.”
The interrogating officer strongly condemned the act, stating, “How can you go and carry someone for nothing? Look at the kind of axe you used on your fellow human being, and the ripping of everything he had.”
On the amount stolen, the suspect disclosed, “Four million nine hundred and ninety-nine thousand.”
Reacting to the use of restraints, the officer added, “This is a handcuff you used on him for doing nothing against you because somebody called you. And you are a serving soldier.”
The officer further lamented the reputational damage such actions inflict on the Nigerian Army, saying, “It’s unfortunate. Some of you are not representing us well. That’s why at times they insult us.”
The suspect admitted his conduct was criminal, stating, “My action was an illegal action. It was not right of me.”
He also revealed that he did not act alone, saying, “Sir, it’s only me and one soldier.”
When pressed, he identified the alleged accomplice as “Ifeanyi,” whom he described as a senior colleague serving at the 13th Brigade.
On his share of the proceeds, the suspect said, “1.5 million.”
When confronted with the moral implications of his actions, including how he would feel if a relative suffered similar treatment, he responded, “It’s unfortunate,” and acknowledged awareness that the act constituted armed robbery.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
The development has, however, intensified public concern over issues of accountability, discipline, and criminal conduct among some personnel within the force.
