The 9 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, based at Ikeja Cantonment in Lagos, has apprehended five individuals who were masquerading as soldiers.

These suspects have now been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

They were arrested separately at various locations in Lagos, including Ojodu Berger, Ikorodu, Ogba, and Ikeja.

The suspects have been identified as Johnson Ayemoba, Salami Olamilekan, Mumammed Bilyaminu, Abijo Taofeek, and Adewale Quadri.

According to Major Augustine Kolawole, the Director of Public Relations for the 9 Brigade, these individuals were captured during a routine patrol conducted by the Brigade.

One of the impersonators, 32-year-old Johnson Ayemoba, was found dressed in a complete military camouflage uniform, even with a photograph of himself wearing the military attire.

During questioning, Ayemoba claimed that he obtained the uniform from a friend named Tiger.

He explained, “I work as a bouncer and provide security at event places like Ikeja, Lekki, and Victoria Island. I obtained the uniform from my friend, Tiger. ”

“My arrest occurred in Ikeja while I was not wearing the uniform but in civilian attire. I took this picture during my birthday.”

Salami Olamilekan admitted to wearing the military attire to escort vehicles both within and outside Lagos.

He stated that he acquired the uniform from a man introduced to him by the first suspect, Johnson Ayemoba.

Major Kolawole emphasized the seriousness of their actions, saying, “These impostors had been presenting themselves as soldiers of the Nigerian Army, causing disturbances, engaging in theft through deception, and at times, resorting to violence while using military uniforms and equipment.”

He also noted that such actions tarnish the reputation of the Nigerian Army among law-abiding citizens.

The Nigerian Army assured the public that it would continue to uphold its code of conduct, ethics, core values, and soldiers’ creed.

They urged law-abiding citizens to report any suspicious activities by unauthorized individuals wearing military uniforms to the appropriate authorities.

Major Kolawole expressed confidence that the police investigation and subsequent prosecution of these impostors would serve as a strong warning to other criminals within the 9 Brigade’s Area of Responsibility and across the nation.

He also cautioned the public against using Army stickers, displaying camouflage jungle hats on vehicle dashboards, or wearing military uniforms for fashion purposes, as such actions are illegal and could lead to prosecution for impersonation.

This incident follows recent arrests by the Lagos State Police Command of impostors in military uniforms who confessed to their involvement in the murder of an aide to Senator Adela Yayi representing Ogun State, Adeniji Sanni, last month.