The Nigerian Army has launched a manhunt for one of its personnel – Private Mohammed Yusuf Amutu – over allegations that he illegally supplied military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal groups.
The Army announced on Thursday that the soldier, who was attached to the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, is wanted after diverting controlled military items into the hands of non-state actors.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC), Major Oluwatope Dorcas Aluko, the military disclosed that Amutu absconded from his unit on June 3, 2026, and has since been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities.
According to the statement, preliminary investigations linked the soldier to the alleged illegal sale and supply of military uniforms, items considered highly sensitive because they can be used by terrorists and criminals to disguise themselves as security personnel during attacks.
The Army said efforts are already underway to track down and arrest the fugitive soldier so he can face a comprehensive investigation and any disciplinary measures prescribed under military law.
“The Headquarters Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) 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.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the soldier, who was serving at the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, absconded from his unit on June 3, 2026. Consequently, he has been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities, while intensive efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him to face a full investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant military laws,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to maintaining discipline within its ranks, stressing that it would not tolerate any conduct capable of endangering national security or tarnishing the image of the military.
It warned that any officer or soldier found to have assisted terrorists, bandits or other criminal groups through the unauthorised sale, diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or other restricted items would face severe sanctions under both military and 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.
“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 Army added.
The military also appealed to members of the public to assist security agencies by providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of the wanted soldier.
It urged anyone with useful intelligence to report immediately to the nearest military formation or any other security agency.
Reassuring Nigerians of its commitment to accountability and professionalism, the Army said it would continue strengthening internal control measures to prevent similar incidents and ensure that any personnel found culpable of misconduct are held fully accountable.
- Media Report