Reprieve came on Christmas day the way of the female soldier who was arrested and detained after online videos showed her in a romantic relationship with a male Corps member who proposed marriage to her.

 

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya on Saturday ordered her immediate release from detention, in the spirit of the Yuletide.

 

Trouble started for the soldier, Private Sofiyat Akinlabi, who has been dubbed “romantic female soldier” when a male corps member, who has been identified as simply Remi, proposed marriage to her, and both of them were seen hugging and kissing.

 

Private Akinlabi was in her military uniform while Remi was in his NYSC attire.

 

The action took place at the Yikpata Orientation Camp in Kwara State.

 

The Nigerian Army accused the female soldier violated the following rules: fraternisation while on official duty at the NYSC camp. That is, indulging in an amorous relationship with a trainee. Personnel must have served for three years before he/she can qualify for marriage.

 

Private Akinlabi’s arrest and detention have sparked several calls from Nigerians who have asked for her release since both were involved in a love affair.

 

Even Remi’s family has also weighed in on the matter, explaining that the relationship between the two lovebirds was not one of love at first sight. According to the family, the two have known each other for over three years but lost contact.

 

Remi and Akinlabi, according to the family, had met somewhere in Ogun State before losing contact, only to be joined again by the NYSC Orientation Camp, where Akinlabi was a trainer and Remi a trainee.