Army Declares Soldier Wanted Over Uniform Allegations

The Nigerian Army has declared Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu wanted over allegations that he supplied military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal groups.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Major Oluwatope Aluko, said preliminary investigations linked the soldier to the alleged activities after he absconded from his unit.

According to the statement, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, who was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, “absconded from his unit on 3 June 2026.”

The Army said he has since been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities, while efforts are ongoing to locate and arrest him so he can face a full investigation and any disciplinary action required under existing military laws.

The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps reiterated its commitment to maintaining discipline within its ranks, stressing 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 Corps also warned that “any personnel found to have aided terrorists, criminals or other non-state actors through the unauthorized 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 Nigerian Army appealed to members of the public to assist with the investigation by providing credible information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest. It urged anyone with relevant information to report to the nearest military formation or any security agency.

Further updates are expected as efforts continue to apprehend the wanted soldier and complete the investigation.

What more can security agencies do to prevent military equipment from falling into the wrong hands?