The Nigerian Army has uncovered and apprehended a suspected impostor, Alhaji Tijjani Abdul Rauf, for allegedly posing as a retired Major General and falsely claiming affiliation with the military.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, the Army said preliminary investigations confirmed that the suspect was never commissioned into the service and did not at any time attain the rank of General or retire from the Army in any capacity.
The Army further disclosed that the suspect falsely claimed to have attended the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, and to have been conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). These claims, it said, were entirely fabricated.
According to the statement, the suspect allegedly used the false credentials to intimidate members of the public, including during court proceedings, where he presented himself as a retired senior military officer to gain undue respect and influence.
During interrogation, investigators reportedly recovered media reports published in two national newspapers in which the suspect was described as a “retired Major General.” One report by Premium Times identified him as “Major General AbdulRauf Tijjani (rtd)” in a suit he instituted against the Lagos State Government and other respondents, seeking ₦8 billion in damages. Another report by Independent Newspaper, dated November 9, 2020, similarly referred to him as a retired major general while reporting his appeal against the dismissal of the same suit. The court had earlier described the case as a gross abuse of court process and incompetent in law.
The Army categorically stated that no retired officer bears the name Alhaji Tijjani Abdul Rauf, nor has any officer with such identity ever held the rank of Major General or above in the service.
It condemned the alleged impersonation, describing it as a serious offence that undermines public trust and tarnishes the integrity of officers who have legitimately served the nation.
The Army reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of its ranks, honours and institutions, pledging continued collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure that impostors are brought to justice.
Members of the public were urged to verify claims of military status through appropriate channels and to report suspicious representations to security agencies. The Army also warned against the unauthorised use of military uniforms and insignia, stating that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
The statement affirmed the Nigerian Army’s resolve to uphold professionalism, integrity and accountability in the defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
