The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old man, Temigbe Adeola, for allegedly impersonating a serving soldier of the Nigerian Army and defrauding a family of N1.2 million belonging to their mother’s retirement benefits. Adeola was arrested in Akure following credible intelligence that linked him to the fraudulent act.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued on Thursday in Akure. He explained that Adeola had pretended to be a military officer to gain the trust of his victim, Mr. Temiloluwa, who approached him for assistance in recovering funds the family invested in property.
According to the police, the money in question—N1.2 million—was part of the victim’s mother’s retirement benefits. The family had invested it in a property deal that later required intervention to recover. Believing Adeola to be a serving officer with influence and connections, the victim’s son sought his help in retrieving the funds.
“Exploiting the trust placed in him, the suspect, along with accomplices who are currently at large, deceitfully obtained the money and converted it to their own use,” Ayanlade said.
He noted that the suspect presented himself as someone who could “handle” the issue through military channels, which led the victim to hand over the money without suspicion.
During interrogation, Adeola reportedly confessed to the crime. Police investigations revealed that he had indeed served in the Nigerian Army but was dismissed in 2023 after serving with the 82 Battalion in Enugu. Despite his dismissal, Adeola continued to parade himself as a serving soldier.
His actions, according to the police, were not isolated. Investigators believe he worked with other accomplices who are currently on the run. Police say tracking down these accomplices is now a priority in the ongoing investigation.
Ayanlade described Adeola’s behaviour as a calculated attempt to deceive innocent citizens, stressing that such impersonation can damage public trust in the military and security institutions.
Cases of military impersonation have increased across Nigeria in recent years. Criminals often disguise themselves as soldiers or police officers to gain access to victims, avoid arrest, or extort money. While the military regularly warns the public to be cautious, many Nigerians still fall victim due to the high level of respect accorded to the armed forces.
The Nigerian Army has repeatedly warned that it does not tolerate impersonation, stressing that anyone caught wearing the uniform illegally will face prosecution. Cases like Adeola’s highlight the importance of verifying the identity of supposed security officers before engaging them in personal or financial matters.
DSP Ayanlade stressed that the case highlights the importance of public awareness and caution when dealing with individuals who claim to represent security agencies.
“The case showcases the importance of public vigilance and highlights the proactive steps taken by the police to safeguard citizens’ hard-earned resources,” he said.
He advised members of the public to always verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a military or security officer before entrusting them with money or sensitive information. Officers of the Nigerian Army carry official identification, and members of the public are encouraged to request verification when unsure.
The police spokesperson also praised the swift action of officers that led to Adeola’s arrest, noting that credible intelligence played a key role in preventing further scams.
Adeola is currently in lawful custody, and police say he will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded. The command is also working to apprehend his accomplices, ensuring that all involved in the crime face justice.
“The Ondo State Police Command remains steadfast in its mandate to protect lives and property. We urge residents to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour or individuals to the nearest police station,” Ayanlade added.
He said the command will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations under the directives of the Inspector-General of Police while maintaining high standards of professionalism.
The police used the opportunity to remind citizens that scammers often exploit trust, especially when victims desperately need assistance. In this case, the family’s desire to recover their mother’s retirement funds made them vulnerable to manipulation.
Security officials advise Nigerians to use official channels when seeking help related to property recovery, pension issues or legal conflicts. Engaging unknown individuals, no matter how convincing they appear, can lead to financial loss and emotional distress.
