Army Clarifies Handling Of Taraba Varsity Student Wearing Military Camouflage

Contrary to a social media post alleging that troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a student of Taraba State University, Mr Yebsonya Gamboro, the authorities have described the claim as a distortion of fact and far from the situation on the ground.

In a statement issued to newsmen by the acting assistant director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, clarified that the student in question was not among those initially apprehended during a social function on the campus.

It dispelled the rumour, saying its personnel did not unlawfully arrest or pick up Mr Gamboro on Friday, October 10, 2025, as claimed on social media.

The statement reads in part, “The Brigade wishes to clarify that Mr Yebsonya Gamboro was not among the students initially apprehended and questioned on the said date for illegally wearing military camouflage during a social function held within the school premises.

“Those students were immediately released after questioning.

“However, subsequent investigation revealed that Mr Gamboro was later seen wearing military camouflage and was questioned by a fellow student, Manga Emmanuel Manga, a 200-level Computer Science student who is also a serving personnel (Ex-Boy).

“This encounter reportedly led to an altercation. During the confrontation, Mr Gamboro allegedly called some friends and assaulted 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 further explained that the 6 Brigade headquarters remains committed to upholding the rule of law, due process and maintaining cordial relations with all institutions within Taraba State, including Taraba State University.

“It is, however, important to note that Section 110 (1) and Section 251 of the Criminal Code Act (Laws of the Federation of Nigeria) make it unlawful for any person who is not a serving member of the Armed Forces to wear or use military uniforms or accoutrements, as doing so constitutes an offence punishable under the law,” Muhammad said.