Nigerian Army Declares Soldier Wanted Over Alleged Illegal Supply of Military Uniforms to Criminal Elements

The Headquarters of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) has declared one of its personnel, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, wanted over allegations of illegally supplying military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements. The Army says investigations are ongoing and has appealed to the public for credible information that could assist in locating the suspect.

Key Takeaways

The Nigerian Army has declared Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu wanted.

He is alleged to have been involved in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms.

The suspect reportedly absconded from his unit on 3 June 2026.

The Army says investigations are ongoing and disciplinary measures will follow if the allegations are established.

Authorities have appealed to the public to provide information leading to his arrest.

The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) has declared Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu wanted following allegations that he was involved in the unauthorized sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements. According to the Army, preliminary investigations indicate that the soldier, who was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, absconded from his unit on 3 June 2026. Military authorities subsequently declared him wanted as efforts continue to locate and apprehend him for further investigation.

The Army stated that once apprehended, the suspect will face a comprehensive investigation and any disciplinary measures prescribed under existing military laws if found culpable. The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps reaffirmed that it maintains zero tolerance for misconduct, indiscipline or any activity capable of compromising national security or undermining the operational integrity and reputation of the Nigerian Army.

It further warned that any military personnel found aiding terrorists, criminal groups or non-state actors through the unauthorized diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or controlled military items would face both military and civil legal consequences. The Corps also appealed to members of the public to report any credible information that could assist security agencies in locating the wanted soldier.

Key Quotes

According to the Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect absconded from his unit on 3 June 2026 and has since been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities.

The Corps further stated 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 Army also appealed to members of the public to support ongoing efforts by providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier.

The Nigerian Army has repeatedly warned against the unauthorized circulation of military uniforms, noting that such items have been exploited by terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups to impersonate security personnel, facilitate attacks and evade detection. In recent years, security agencies have intensified efforts to dismantle networks involved in the illegal production, diversion and distribution of military equipment as part of broader counter-terrorism and internal security operations.

Source: Statement issued by the Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, through Major Oluwatopé Dorcas Aluko, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 23 July 2026.

Progressviews Analysis

The case underscores the strategic importance of safeguarding military assets, particularly uniforms and other controlled equipment that can be exploited for impersonation or operational deception. Allegations involving serving personnel also highlight the need for robust internal accountability mechanisms capable of detecting and addressing misconduct before it poses threats or wider security risks.

ℙℝ𝕆𝔾ℝ𝔼𝕊𝕊𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎𝕊 𝕀ℕ𝕊𝕀𝔾ℍ𝕋𝕊

By publicly declaring the soldier wanted, the Nigerian Army signals its willingness to investigate allegations involving its own personnel rather than shielding them from scrutiny. While the allegations remain under investigation, the outcome of the case will likely be closely watched as a measure of the Army's commitment to accountability, institutional integrity and strengthening public confidence in ongoing efforts to protect national security.

The Army's appeal also underscores the importance of public cooperation. Citizens with credible information on the suspect's whereabouts are encouraged to promptly report it to the appropriate security authorities, supporting lawful efforts to locate the wanted officer while allowing due process to take its course.