Nigerian Army denies involvement in Abia robbery case, says suspect is an impersonator and urges public to report fake soldiers

The Headquarters of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Abia State, on Wednesday dismissed reports linking a suspected armed robber, identified as Lance Corporal Chukwu Ebuka Peter, to the Nigerian military, stating that the individual is not a serving soldier.

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The clarification follows viral social media claims and a circulating video alleging that the suspect, reportedly arrested for armed robbery, was attached to the 14 Brigade in Ohafia. The Nigerian Army has now described the claim as false and misleading.

Captain Mazinho Attah, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, in an official statement, said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is an impostor who falsely presented himself as a member of the Nigerian Army in order to facilitate criminal activities.

He explained that internal checks showed no record of the individual within the brigade’s personnel database and that the unit allegedly referenced during interrogation does not exist within the formation.

According to the Army, the development is a serious case of impersonation, which it strongly condemned, describing it as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of the military institution.

The statement emphasised that the Nigerian Army upholds strict discipline and accountability, adding that any verified personnel found involved in criminal conduct would be subjected to appropriate military justice procedures without hesitation.

The Army further urged members of the public to disregard any claims linking the suspect to its ranks and encouraged vigilance in identifying individuals impersonating security personnel.

It also advised citizens to promptly report suspicious persons posing as soldiers to the nearest security agency for swift action, warning that impersonation of military officers poses a significant threat to public safety and national security.

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The incident has sparked renewed concern over rising cases of military impersonation used to aid criminal activities, prompting calls for stronger verification and enforcement measures.