The Nigerian Navy has handed over two suspected naval impersonators to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and possible prosecution in Calabar, Cross River State.
In a statement signed by Director of Naval Information Captain A. A. Folorunsho, the Navy said personnel of NNS Victory arrested the suspects, identified as David Norbert Aleji and Francis Gideon Isaac, on March 10, 2026, after they were found dressed in military camouflage and in possession of suspected fake military identification cards.
According to preliminary investigations, Aleji allegedly posed as a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, while Isaac impersonated a Midshipman. Both men reportedly claimed to be serving personnel aboard NNS Sagbama.
Further inquiries revealed that Aleji, who previously underwent some training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron, was the alleged mastermind of the impersonation scheme and had recruited Isaac, who resides with him.
A search conducted at their residence reportedly led to the recovery of additional military-related items, including a jungle hat and a pair of boots. The suspects were also said to have admitted purchasing the uniforms and accessories and producing the identification cards themselves.
The Navy said the suspects have since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department of the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the integrity of the service, the Nigerian Navy urged members of the public to report cases of military impersonation, noting that such acts constitute criminal offences capable of undermining the reputation of the armed forces.
