By Esther Onyegbula

LAGOS—A 25-year-old fake soldier, Paul Irimiya, who is currently being investigated by operatives attached to Ijora Badia Division, Lagos State Police Command for impersonation has revealed that he printed a military identity card from the internet.

According to the suspect, who was arrested on February 5, 2024, while carrying a passenger from Festac going to CMS, “I have never served in the military. I printed the identity card from the internet to enable me carry out my business as a commercial motorcycle rider without being disturbed by the police.”

Confirming his arrest, the spokesperson Lagos State Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin said: “On February 5, 2024, at 2a.m., officers of Ijora Badia Division while on visibility patrol of the area, apprehended a motorcycle rider carrying a passenger from Festac going to CMS, along Apapa/ Costain overhead bridge, Ijora Badia. The motorcycle was taken to the station while the rider and the passenger were allowed to go after the rider introduced himself as a serving personnel of the Nigerian Army.

“He was asked to come with his identity card the next day, February 6. About 6p.m., the rider, who claimed to be a serving soldier showed a military identity card to buttress his claim.”