Army Apprehends Nine Impostors Posing as Soldiers

81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) Headquarters has arrested nine individuals who were posing as NA soldiers and engaging in criminal activities that disrupt peace and security in Lagos State and its surroundings.

On March 13th, 2024, a group of impostors were presented to the media at Headquarters 81 Division NA in Victoria Island, Lagos. The individuals were identified as Mr. Abua Jacob, Mr. Solomon Abraham, Mr. Mohammed Jemilu, Mr. Michael Omieh, Mr. Dauda Samuel, Mr. Bida Musa, Miss Esther Audu, and Miss Vivian Titus.

These individuals have been apprehended for engaging in illegal activities such as performing unauthorized duties, offering illegal security services, and providing illegal escort services while wearing military uniforms. These actions have not only put the safety of civilians in danger but also caused damage to the esteemed reputation of the Nigerian Army.

Mr. Abua Jacob, a dismissed soldier, was apprehended on February 7, 2024, at Alaba International Market, Ojo Lagos, for impersonation. Mr. Solomon Abraham, Mr. Michael Omieh, Mr. Mohammed Jemilu, and Mr. Dauda Samuel, all dismissed soldiers, were also arrested in separate incidents for similar offenses. Additionally, Miss Esther Audu and Miss Vivian Titus were arrested for impersonation during operations along various routes in Lagos.

The General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA, Major General Mohammed Takuti Usman, has urged law-abiding citizens in Lagos and Ogun States to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. He reassured the public that concerted efforts, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue to ensure that such criminal elements are denied a comfort zone within the Division’s Area of  Responsibility.

The suspects will be handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and prosecution by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of citizens within its jurisdiction and will continue to take decisive action against individuals impersonating service personnel and other criminal elements.

OLABISI OLALEKAN AYENI
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations
81 Division Nigerian Army
14 March 2024