Nigerian Army Declares Soldier Wanted Over Alleged Supply of Military Uniforms to Terrorists

 

The Headquarters of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) has declared one of its personnel, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, wanted over allegations that he illegally supplied military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Thursday by Major Oluwatopẹ Dorcas Aluko, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps.

According to the statement, preliminary investigations revealed that Private Amutu, who was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, allegedly became involved in the unauthorized sale and distribution of military uniforms before absconding from his unit.

The Army disclosed that the soldier has been absent without authorization since June 3, 2026, prompting military authorities to officially declare him wanted.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the soldier, who was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, absconded from his unit on 3 June 2026. Consequently, he has been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities, while intensive efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him to face a full investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant military laws,” the statement read.

The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps stressed that it maintains zero tolerance for misconduct and any act capable of undermining national security or the operational effectiveness of the military.

It warned that any military personnel found aiding terrorists, criminals or other non-state actors through the unauthorized sale, diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or other controlled items would face severe consequences under both military and civil laws.

“The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps wishes to state unequivocally that it has zero tolerance for misconduct, indiscipline, or any act capable of compromising the operational effectiveness, integrity and reputation of the Nigerian Army or threatening national security,” the statement added.

The Corps appealed to members of the public to support the ongoing manhunt by providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier.

Citizens with useful information were urged to report immediately to the nearest military formation or any other security agency.

The Army also reassured Nigerians of its commitment to accountability, professionalism and safeguarding military assets, noting that internal control measures are continually being strengthened to prevent the diversion of military equipment.

It further pledged that every allegation of misconduct involving its personnel would be thoroughly investigated and that anyone found guilty would be held fully accountable in accordance with the law.

The development comes amid ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb the proliferation of military uniforms in the hands of terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups, who have increasingly used such attire to impersonate security personnel during attacks.