The Kaduna State Police Command has apprehended a 59-year-old man accused of impersonating several high-ranking political and security officials across Nigeria in a years-long fraudulent scheme.
The suspect, identified as Aminu Yarima from Bichi Local Government Area in Kano State, was arrested on July 19, 2025, at his residence in GRA Government Quarters, Keffi, Nasarawa State, following weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering by police operatives.
Spokesperson for the command, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Tuesday.
He said Yarima had posed as numerous influential figures to carry out fraudulent activities.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to impersonating prominent personalities, including the governors of Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Ondo states; the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, the Inspector-General of Police; the Force Public Relations Officer; and even spouses of top government officials,” Hassan stated.
Police disclosed that a search of Yarima’s home revealed incriminating items such as five mobile phones, 23 SIM cards, and multiple diaries and notebooks containing the contact details of senior government officials, traditional rulers, and security officers nationwide.
“The materials recovered from his home suggest a well-organized and far-reaching impersonation network,” Hassan added.
“He had compiled detailed information on chiefs of staff to state governors, military generals, police commissioners, and emirs.”
According to the police, the suspect is currently undergoing further investigation and will face prosecution upon the conclusion of inquiries.
The Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State, Rabiu Muhammad, lauded the operatives for their diligence, describing the arrest as a major breakthrough in efforts to rid the state of impersonators and fraudsters.
“This is a significant achievement in our fight against criminal elements who tarnish the image of Nigeria’s public institutions,” CP Muhammad said. “The police remain committed to protecting lives, property, and the integrity of our governance structures.”
The command urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals who may be attempting to exploit government titles for personal gain.