Soldier Recently Visited by Gov Otti Arrested Over Alleged N114m Fraud, False Claims on Killing of Gang Leader Osisikankwu

The Nigerian Army has taken into custody a staff sergeant over allegations of large-scale financial fraud and false claims linked to a past counter-kidnapping operation in Abia State.

The suspect, identified as Staff Sergeant Amoke Simon of the Army Engineers Corps in Lagos, was arrested at the Port Harcourt International Airport in Rivers State while allegedly attempting to travel to Abuja. Port Harcourt International Airport serves as a major transit hub in the region.

His arrest followed an ongoing internal investigation into alleged impersonation and financial misconduct. Military authorities said the operation that led to his arrest was carried out by troops of the 14 Brigade in collaboration with personnel of the 6 Division Provost Unit after intelligence reports linked him to multiple complaints.

According to reports by Guardian Nigeria, preliminary findings indicate that the soldier allegedly misrepresented his involvement in the 2010 operation that led to the killing of suspected kidnap leader Obioma Nwankwo, popularly known as Osisikankwu. He is said to have presented himself to officials of the Abia State Government as one of the key operatives in the mission, a claim that reportedly earned him recognition and promises of support, including medical assistance.

The operation itself was led by then Major Timothy Oparon under the command of Brigadier General Andrew Audu, involving a team of 26 soldiers tasked with tracking the gang leader in a forested area.

Investigators further allege that Amoke is being probed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in connection with separate fraud complaints. He is accused of obtaining about N100 million from a company, N6 million from an individual, and an additional N8 million from a group of persons under false pretences before allegedly going into hiding.

Military sources also claimed that the suspect had sought financial assistance from various individuals, presenting himself as a wounded soldier. This was reportedly linked to injuries he sustained in a motorcycle accident in Lagos, which he allegedly used to support his requests for aid.

Authorities added that records reviewed within the Army show the suspect had no involvement in the 2010 Abia operation and was not deployed to Maiduguri or any North-East theatre of operations, contrary to claims he allegedly made. A senior source described such assertions as inconsistent with official deployment records.

The Army also clarified that the claims could not be verified by personnel who participated in the operation and warned that such misrepresentations undermine the service of those who took part in legitimate military engagements.

The detained soldier is expected to be transferred to Lagos for further investigation and possible disciplinary action as the inquiry continues.

In addition, it was noted that he had recently been visited by Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia State, though authorities have not indicated that the visit is directly connected to the allegations under investigation.