SOLDIER RECEIVES N500 THOUSAND REWARD AFTER TURNING DOWN BRIBE FROM KIDNAPPER
The Nigerian Army has honoured Private Utim Terwase with a ₦500,000 cash reward for refusing payment offered by a notorious kidnapper to secure his freedom.
Terwase reportedly intercepted the suspect while he was attempting to escape but declined the money offered to facilitate his release. He subsequently handed the suspect over to the relevant authorities.
The recognition 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.
The cash reward was presented on Dangana’s behalf by the Commander of Sector 6, Colonel Philimon Malgwi, while the operation’s spokesperson, Captain Polycarp Chinonso Oteh, confirmed the development.
Dangana praised Terwase for placing his responsibility above personal gain, describing his actions as an example of the discipline, integrity and professionalism expected of military personnel.
He said: “The soldier’s conduct reflects the highest standards of military professionalism, loyalty and commitment to duty expected of personnel of the Nigerian Army.
“Rather than compromise his responsibility for personal gain, he upheld the values of honesty, accountability and selfless service by discharging his duties responsibly.”
The GOC disclosed that the ₦500,000 presented to the soldier was equivalent to the amount he rejected as a bribe.
He further encouraged other personnel to follow Terwase’s example, stressing that Operation Enduring Peace would continue to promote integrity, accountability and professionalism in the discharge of military duties.