Nine individuals, masquerading as soldiers, have been apprehended by operatives of Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA), in Lagos.
Disclosing this in a statement on Thursday, the Division’s acting deputy director, Lt. Col Olabisi Ayeni, said the impostors had been engaging in criminal activities that disrupt the peace and security enjoyed in Lagos State and its environs.
The impostors, who were paraded to the media on Wednesday at Headquarters 81 Division NA, Victoria Island, Lagos, were identified as, Abua Jacob, Solomon Abraham, Mohammed Jemilu, Michael Omieh, Dauda Samuel, Bida Musa, Esther Audu, and Vivian Titus.
“These suspects have been arrested for various offenses, including illegal duties, providing illegal security, and illegal escort services while donning military uniforms. Their actions have not only compromised the safety of civilians but also tarnished the esteemed image of the Nigerian Army”, Ayeni said.
Specifically, Abua Jacob, a dismissed soldier, was apprehended on February 7, 2024, at Alaba International Market, Ojo Lagos, for impersonation, while Solomon Abraham, Michael Omieh, Mohammed Jemilu, and Dauda Samuel, all dismissed soldiers, were also arrested in separate incidents for similar offences.
Additionally, Esther Audu and 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, while also reassuring the public that concerted efforts, in collaboration with other security agencies, will be carried out continue to ensure that such criminal elements are denied a comfort zone within the Division’s Area of Responsibility (AoR).
Ayeni said that the suspects will be handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
