The Nigerian Army has declared one of its soldiers, Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu, wanted over allegations that he was involved in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements.
The development was announced by the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC), which said the soldier is currently being sought by military authorities following findings from an ongoing investigation.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Major Oluwatope Dorcas Aluko, preliminary investigations linked Amutu to the unauthorized distribution of military uniforms before he reportedly disappeared from his duty post.
The Army said the soldier was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory before he allegedly absconded from his unit on June 3, 2026.
Military authorities said his disappearance raised concerns and triggered further investigations, which reportedly uncovered allegations connecting him to the illegal movement of military materials.
Following the discovery, the appropriate authorities declared him wanted and launched efforts to track him down.
“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 Army said operations are ongoing to locate and arrest the soldier so that he can face a full investigation and any disciplinary measures that may arise from the outcome of the probe.
Officials noted that military uniforms and related items are controlled materials whose unauthorized distribution poses serious security risks, especially when they fall into the hands of insurgents, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups.
Security agencies have repeatedly expressed concerns over the use of military uniforms by criminal elements to deceive members of the public, evade security checks and carry out attacks while impersonating security personnel.
The Army said the allegations against the soldier are being treated with utmost seriousness because of their potential impact on national security and military operations.
It added that any personnel found to have assisted terrorists or criminal groups through the illegal sale, diversion or distribution of military equipment would be held accountable under military regulations and applicable civil laws.
“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,” Aluko said.
The Corps stressed that the institution remains committed to maintaining discipline among its personnel and safeguarding military assets from abuse or diversion.
According to the statement, military authorities will continue to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that anyone found culpable is made to face the consequences of their actions.
The Army further warned personnel against engaging in activities that could undermine ongoing security operations across the country.
It stated that the unauthorized supply of military uniforms, accoutrements and other restricted items to non-state actors remains a grave offence that will attract severe sanctions.
The statement added: “Any personnel involved in supplying restricted military materials to terrorists or criminal groups would be dealt with decisively.”
The Corps also appealed to members of the public to support ongoing efforts to apprehend the wanted soldier.
It urged anyone with credible information regarding Amutu’s whereabouts to report to the nearest military formation or any security agency for immediate action.
The Army assured Nigerians that it remains committed to accountability, professionalism and the protection of military assets.
It also reiterated that allegations of misconduct involving its personnel would not be ignored and would be subjected to transparent investigation.
