By Lagos Panorama Correspondent – Abuja, February 12, 2026
The Nigerian Army has apprehended Alhaji Tijjani Abdul Rauf, a man who falsely presented himself as a retired Major General, misleading the public and abusing the prestige of the military institution.
Investigations confirmed that Abdul Rauf was never commissioned into the Nigerian Army, never attained the rank of General, nor retired from service in any capacity.
He also fraudulently claimed to have attended the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, and falsely asserted that he had received the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). All these claims have been conclusively proven to be fabricated.
Authorities say Abdul Rauf used these false credentials to intimidate civilians and even influence court proceedings, presenting himself as a retired senior officer to command respect and sympathy.
During interrogation, media reports in two nationally recognised newspapers were recovered showing how the impostor was repeatedly referred to as a “retired Major General.” Among these, the Premium Times reportedly identified him as “Major General AbdulRauf Tijjani (rtd)” in a suit against the Lagos State Government seeking ₦8 billion in damages.
The Independent Newspaper, in a November 9, 2020 report, also referred to him as a “retired major general” while detailing his appeal against the dismissal of the same suit — which the court had earlier described as a gross abuse of process and incompetent in law.
The Nigerian Army has clarified that no retired officer bears the name Alhaji Tijjani Abdul Rauf, and no officer with such identity has ever held the rank of Major General or above.
The Army condemns the act of impersonation, describing it as a serious offence that undermines public trust and tarnishes the honour of officers who have genuinely served the nation.
The Army reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of its ranks and institutions, pledging to collaborate with relevant authorities to bring impostors and fraudsters to justice.
Members of the public are urged to verify claims of military status through official channels and report suspicious activity. The Nigerian Army warned that anyone caught impersonating military personnel or misusing military uniforms and insignia will face the full wrath of the law.
The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in upholding professionalism, integrity, and accountability in defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
