A Nigerian national, Kehinde Oluwagbemileke, has been apprehended by Ukrainian forces while serving in the Russian Army amid the ongoing conflict.
The 29-year-old was taken into custody by the Freedom of Russia Legion, a group composed of Russian soldiers who have aligned themselves with Ukraine.
Oluwagbemileke, who had been residing in Russia for four years, was reportedly serving a prison sentence for a drug-related offence prior to joining the military.
He allegedly enlisted with the Russian armed forces under a deal that promised a reduced sentence in exchange for his participation in the war.
His capture occurred in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region after spending five months on the battlefield.
Ukraine’s “I Want to Live” project, which monitors such cases, stated, “Kehinde is one of thousands of mercenaries from third countries recruited by Russia’s Defence Ministry to fight in Ukraine… All of them are cheap manpower, which is not spared.”
A video released by the Freedom of Russia Legion showed Oluwagbemileke being questioned after his capture. When asked why he joined the war effort, he replied, “For quick liberation.” He confirmed that he had been released from prison in order to enlist.
“We were four. We went. One died, the rest injured. Lucky I’m alive,” he said, describing the ordeal. He also revealed that his family in Nigeria was unaware of his involvement in the war.
Oluwagbemileke, who previously worked in Russia as a translator assisting individuals from South America, Africa, and China, noted that his unit included other African nationals from Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon.
Toward the end of the video, as he received medical attention, he expressed gratitude to the Freedom of Russia Legion for saving his life and providing care for his injuries.
His capture follows the recent detention of a Chinese citizen also found fighting for Russia in the ongoing war.
