The Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps (NAOC) has declared one of its personnel, Mohammed Amutu, wanted over his alleged involvement in the illegal sale and supply of military uniforms to terrorists and other criminal elements.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Thursday, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Corps Headquarters, Lt. Col. Oluwatope Aluko, said preliminary investigations revealed that Amutu, who was attached to the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, absconded from his unit on June 3.
According to Aluko, the soldier has since been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities, while efforts are ongoing to track and arrest him.
“Consequently, he has been declared wanted by the appropriate military authorities, while intensive efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him to face a full investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant military laws,” the statement said.
The army reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on misconduct, indiscipline and any action capable of undermining its operational effectiveness or threatening national security.
Aluko warned that any military personnel found aiding terrorists, criminals or other non-state actors through the unauthorised sale, diversion or distribution of military uniforms, accoutrements or other controlled items would face severe disciplinary measures under both military and civil laws.
He also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in locating and apprehending the wanted soldier.
The army reassured Nigerians of its commitment to accountability, professionalism and the protection of military assets, adding that it would continue to strengthen internal control mechanisms to prevent misconduct.
Aluko further stated that all allegations against personnel would be thoroughly investigated and anyone found culpable would be held accountable in accordance with the law.
