By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has debunked reports circulating on social media alleging that its personnel unlawfully arrested a student of Taraba State University, Mr. Yebsonya Gamboro, within the university premises.
According to an official statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the claim was misleading and did not accurately reflect the events that occurred on Friday, October 10, 2025.
Lt. Muhammad explained that contrary to the reports, Mr. Gamboro was not among the students earlier apprehended and questioned for illegally wearing military camouflage during a social event held on the university campus. “Those students were immediately released after questioning,” he said.
He disclosed that subsequent investigation revealed that Mr. Gamboro was later seen wearing military camouflage and was confronted by another student, Manga Emmanuel Manga, a 200-level Computer Science student who is also a serving military personnel (Ex-Boy). The confrontation, according to the Army, degenerated into an altercation after Mr. Gamboro allegedly called his friends to assault Mr. Manga, during which the latter’s mobile phone was reported missing.
“Following the incident, some of Mr. Manga’s colleagues sought assistance to present Mr. Gamboro to the Brigade for questioning. He was subsequently released the following morning and handed over to the University Security Officer for further investigation and appropriate administrative action aimed at recovering the missing phone,” the statement added.
Lieutenant Muhammad reaffirmed that the 6 Brigade, which also serves as Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), remains committed to upholding the rule of law, due process, and maintaining cordial relations with all institutions within Taraba State, including Taraba State University.
He stressed that the Brigade does not condone indiscipline or abuse of authority and urged the public to always verify information before sharing it on social media.
The statement further reminded the public that it is unlawful for civilians to wear or use military uniforms or accoutrements. It cited Sections 110 (1) and 251 of the Criminal Code Act (Laws of the Federation of Nigeria), which stipulate that such acts constitute a punishable offence.
“The Nigerian Army remains a professional and law-abiding institution dedicated to protecting citizens while ensuring respect for civil authority,” the statement concluded.
