Army declares soldier wanted over alleged sale of uniforms to terrorists

Allegations of Illegal Uniform Supply

The Nigerian Army has declared a soldier, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC), wanted over his alleged involvement in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements. The development has raised significant concerns regarding internal security and the potential exploitation of military assets by non-state actors.

Amutu was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory before his sudden disappearance. Authorities report that the soldier absconded from his unit on June 3, 2026, which immediately triggered a series of administrative and security protocols to determine his whereabouts and the extent of his activities.

Military Investigation and Manhunt

In a formal statement released on Thursday, Major Oluwatope Aluko, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, confirmed that preliminary investigations have linked the soldier to the unauthorized distribution of military kits. The military hierarchy has intensified efforts to locate the individual to face disciplinary proceedings.

following his disappearance, the appropriate military authorities declared him wanted and have launched intensive efforts to locate and apprehend him for a full investigation and possible disciplinary action in accordance with extant military laws.

— Major Oluwatope Aluko, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps

The Army’s leadership emphasized that the search for Private Amutu is a priority, given the gravity of the allegations. The supply of official uniforms to criminal elements is viewed as a direct threat to the operational effectiveness and safety of troops engaged in various theaters of operation across the country.

Stance on Military Discipline and Public Safety

The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward any form of misconduct or indiscipline that compromises national security. Officials warned that any personnel found to be collaborating with terrorists or criminals through the diversion of military accoutrements will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

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 would face the full weight of both military and civil laws.

— Major Oluwatope Aluko, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps

In an appeal to the general public, the Corps urged citizens to provide credible information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier. Individuals with knowledge of Amutu’s location are encouraged to report to the nearest military formation or security agency. The military remains committed to strengthening internal controls and maintaining professionalism within its ranks to protect the nation's integrity.