According to a report by Vanguard on Thursday, July 23, 2026, the Nigerian Army has called one of its personnel wanted for allegedly diverting and selling military uniforms to terrorists and other criminals, calling the alleged conduct a severe danger to national security.
Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu was wanted. He allegedly left the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory earlier this year, according to military authorities.
The Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Major Oluwatope Aluko, stated on Thursday that preliminary investigations linked the soldier to the alleged unauthorised distribution of military uniforms and related items.
The statement stated that Amutu left his unit on June 3, 2026, causing military authorities to search for and arrest him.
The Army said his disappearance occurred during military uniform diversion investigations.
“The appropriate military authorities have declared him wanted and commenced efforts to locate and apprehend him for further investigation and possible disciplinary action in accordance with military laws,” the statement stated. (guardian.ng)
The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps said it has zero tolerance for misconduct, indiscipline, and any action that could compromise the Armed Forces’ operational effectiveness, credibility, and reputation.
The unauthorised sale or diversion of military uniforms, equipment, and other controlled items puts security at risk because terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminals can impersonate security personnel and carry out attacks.
The Army declared that officers and soldiers who gave military uniforms or equipment to unauthorised persons would face harsh military discipline and civil prosecution.
The statement noted that investigations are ongoing and that all parties involved in the suspected diversion will be thoroughly examined.
The Nigerian Army asked the public to help security agencies arrest the wanted soldier by providing credible information.
Anyone with information on Amutu’s location should contact the nearest military unit or security agency.
The Army also promised Nigerians that it will safeguard military assets and prevent criminals from obtaining sensitive equipment.
In Nigeria, terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits have used military uniforms in attacks across the country, raising concerns. Security experts have cautioned that the growing circulation of authentic and counterfeit military uniforms has allowed criminal groups to fool bystanders, elude suspicion, and commit attacks as security officers.
The Nigerian military has increased measures to stop unauthorised military uniform fabrication, sale, and diversion in recent months. The police have raided and arrested several illegal military camouflage manufacturers. The Army also advises citizens against wearing military camouflage, which breaches regulations and hinders security services. (dailytrust.com)
Defence officials claimed they are upgrading inventory management, internal accountability, and military retail regulations to prevent future instances.
The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps pledged professionalism, transparency, and accountability, threatening to prosecute anyone who compromised national security.
