The Nigerian Navy has transferred two suspected military impersonators to the Nigeria Police Force State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Calabar, Cross River State, for further investigation and potential prosecution.
The suspects, identified as David Norbert Aleji and Francis Gideon Isaac, were apprehended on March 10, 2026, after being caught wearing military camouflage uniforms and carrying fake military identification cards.
The Masterminds Behind the Scheme
According to the Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, initial investigations revealed the extent of the fraudulent operation. David Aleji allegedly presented himself as a Nigerian Navy Lieutenant, while his accomplice, Francis Isaac, impersonated a Midshipman. Both men falsely claimed to be serving personnel aboard NNS Sagbama.
Further probe into the matter uncovered that Aleji was the brains behind the entire impersonation scheme. Interestingly, he had previously received some training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron, Akwa Ibom State, which may have given him insider knowledge about naval operations.
“Aleji, who previously received some training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, was the mastermind behind the impersonation scheme and recruited Isaac, who resides with him,” Folorunsho explained.
What Security Operatives Found
When security operatives searched the suspects’ residence, they recovered additional military-related items, including a jungle hat and a pair of boots. During interrogation, both suspects confessed to purchasing the uniforms and accessories, and admitted to producing the fake identification cards themselves.
Navy Warns Nigerians Against Impersonators
The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of the service and maintaining public trust in the armed forces. The naval spokesperson emphasized that impersonating military personnel is a serious criminal offence that damages the reputation and credibility of Nigeria’s armed forces.
“The Nigerian Navy reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the Service and enjoins members of the public to report such acts of impersonation to the authorities,” Folorunsho stated.
This arrest serves as a stern warning to those who attempt to deceive the public by impersonating military personnel. Nigerians are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals claiming to be military officers to the nearest security agency.
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If you encounter anyone claiming to be a military officer under suspicious circumstances, please report immediately to the nearest police station or military facility. Impersonation is a criminal offence punishable under Nigerian law.
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