Femi Ashekun/
The Nigerian Army has declared one of its soldiers wanted over allegations that he illegally supplied military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal groups.
The soldier, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, attached to the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, is accused of involvement in the unauthorised sale and distribution of military uniforms, an offence the Army said threatens national security and compromises military operations.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, the Army disclosed that preliminary investigations showed the soldier absconded from his unit on June 3, 2026 and has since been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities.
The Corps said intensive efforts were underway to track him down and ensure he faces investigation and disciplinary proceedings.
“The Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps has declared one of its personnel, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, wanted over his alleged involvement in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements,” the statement said.
It added: “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 announcement comes amid longstanding security concerns over the increasing use of military uniforms by terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other armed groups, who often exploit the attire to deceive civilians, evade suspicion and launch attacks on communities and security personnel.
The Army said it would not tolerate any conduct capable of undermining its operational effectiveness or aiding criminal organisations.
“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 said.
It warned that any military personnel found to have facilitated the diversion of uniforms or other controlled military items would face severe consequences.
“Any personnel found to have aided terrorists, criminals or other non-state actors through the unauthorised sale, diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or other controlled items will be subjected to the full weight of military and civil laws.”
The Army appealed to members of the public to assist security agencies with information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier.
“The Corps therefore appeals to members of the public to support ongoing efforts by providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier. Such information should be reported immediately to the nearest military formation or any security agency.”
Reassuring Nigerians of its commitment to accountability and professionalism, the Army said it would continue strengthening internal safeguards to prevent the diversion of military equipment and ensure anyone found culpable is held accountable.
“The Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps reassures Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to accountability, professionalism and the protection of military assets. The Corps will continue to strengthen internal control measures and ensure that every allegation of misconduct is thoroughly investigated while those found culpable are held fully accountable.”
The statement was signed by Major Oluwatopé Dorcas Aluko, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps.
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