Soldier turns down N500,000 bribe, rewarded with N500,000

A soldier with Operation Enduring Peace in Plateau State, Private Utim Terwase, has received N500,000 for refusing to accept the same amount as a bribe from a suspected kidnapper.

The military task force spokesman in Plateau State, Captain Chinonso Oteh, shared this news in a statement in Jos on Wednesday.

Oteh explained that Terwase caught the suspect trying to escape but did not let him go after the suspect offered him N500,000 in exchange for his freedom.

He added that Terwase then handed the suspect over to the proper authorities.

To honor his integrity, discipline, and commitment to duty, the Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Maj. Gen. Maxwell Dangana, rewarded Terwase with N500,000, matching the bribe he turned down.

Oteh quoted Dangana, who spoke through the Commander of Sector 6, OPEP, Col. Philimon Malgwi, saying that the soldier’s actions showed the best standards of military professionalism, loyalty, and commitment expected from soldiers.

He said, “Rather than compromise his responsibility for personal gain, he upheld the values of honesty, accountability, and selfless service by discharging his duties responsibly.”

The statement mentioned that Operation Enduring Peace praised Terwase’s actions and encouraged other personnel to follow his example.

It also said that this recognition highlights the operation’s dedication to promoting accountability, ethical behavior, and professionalism in carrying out its duties.

The military emphasized that this act sends a strong message to its personnel and Nigerians that honesty, accountability, and professionalism are key values that deserve recognition.

The statement noted that, especially when corruption continues to damage public trust, Terwase’s decision serves as a reminder that integrity is a personal choice, even when facing temptations.

“A soldier who refused N500,000 in dirty money has earned N500,000 in honour. Indeed, integrity pays!” the statement said.