Army arrests notorious impostor parading as retired major general

The Nigerian army on Thursday, February 12, arrested a notorious impostor identified as Tijjani Abdul Rauf for parading himself as a retired major general.

According to a statement issued by the army’s spokesperson, Appolonia Anele, investigations confirmed that Abdul Rauf was never commissioned into the service, had never attained the rank of general, and had never served in any official capacity within the force.

“Further findings established that he fraudulently claimed attendance of the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.

“He also falsely asserted that he was a recipient of the national honour of officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR).

“All these claims have been conclusively confirmed to be entirely false and fabricated,” the statement read.

Abdul Rauf systematically used his fake credentials to intimidate members of the public, including during court proceedings where he presented himself as a retired senior officer to command influence and respect.

Evidence recovered includes media publications from two nationally recognized newspapers that erroneously identified him as a retired general in a lawsuit against the Lagos state government and other respondents, in which he sought ₦8 billion in damages.

The Nigerian army categorically stated that no retired officer bears the name Tijjani Abdul Rauf and that no individual with such an identity has ever held the rank of major general or above within its ranks.

The army condemned the impersonation, describing it as a serious offence that undermines public trust and tarnishes the integrity of officers who have served the country.

It reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the credibility of its ranks and honours, warning that impersonation and the unauthorized use of military titles, uniforms, or insignia remain criminal offences.

The public was urged to verify claims of military status through appropriate channels and to report suspicious representations to security agencies.

The army pledged continued collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure that individuals involved in impersonation are prosecuted in accordance with the law.