A suspected bandit identified as Gede Sabiu has triggered widespread outrage online after allegedly flaunting military gear and ammunition in a viral TikTok video.
In the clip circulating across social media platforms, the suspected bandit reportedly displayed neatly arranged military fatigues, caps, and approximately 10 loaded magazines, estimated to contain about 300 rounds of ammunition.
The development has reignited concerns over the proliferation of military-grade equipment among criminal groups operating in Nigeria’s northwest.
Frontline soldiers and observers reacted angrily to the footage, highlighting what they describe as a troubling disparity between the resources available to troops and those allegedly in the hands of bandits.
Some claimed that soldiers on active duty often operate with limited ammunition, raising questions about how such equipment ends up with non-state actors.
X user, @Pressman2040, who claimed to be a frontline soldier, expressed frustration over the situation, alleging that bandits appear better equipped than some military personnel.
He called for an urgent investigation into possible internal sabotage and supply leaks within the system.
“As a Nigerian soldier on the front line, I’m tired of this nonsense. Bandit Gede Sabiu is flexing brand new military uniforms and carrying 10 magazines of AK-47 (300 rounds) ammunition that we soldiers don’t even get access to for one proper operation.
“While we fight with limited rounds, these terror!sts are being fully kitted and supplied like reserve forces. This is clear internal sabotage and collaboration.
“ The military must trace every supplier, every store, and every person involved in leaking uniforms and ammunition to bandits.
“We are bleeding daily with shortages, yet enemies are well-dressed and well-armed. Enough of the betrayal from within! Investigate now and punish those feeding the terrorists.From the battlefield we see everything and we see the truth.” he said
Other users pointed to systemic issues, suggesting that the commercialization of military uniforms and kits may have contributed to their accessibility on the open market.
Critics argue that weak regulation and enforcement have made it easier for unauthorized individuals to acquire restricted items.
Another commentator, @EngrAdau, noted that allowing military personnel to purchase kits beyond officially issued supplies may have unintentionally opened the door for misuse and diversion.
“The issue of military kits being available to bandits will continue to be a problem so long as military personnel purchase uniforms and kits more than they’re issued.
“The idea of issuing uniforms and military kits was meant to regulate the items, but the open purchase has made it available to any individual on the open market. The government remains the problem.”
@OfLagosszn added: “This guy is a full blown bandit like he updates steady even few hours ago .. even their accomplishments he do post .. but if I go on TikTok and say something I’m not supposed to say about this government I’ll be tracked down in less than 2 days damn this country men”.
@Davidoghe said “the same equipment soldiers pay for with their money, terrorists get them for free and have the guts to display it to the public.
“How do you expect an ordinary Nigerian to want to be enlisted into the army seeing this, what morale do you expect soldiers fighting them to have seen this.
Read also:
- Why FG Should Prosecute Companies, Individuals Sponsoring Terrorism, by ex NBA Vice President
- Reactions trail graduation of 744 repentant Boko Haram terrorists
- 117 repentant terrorists graduate from Operation Safe Corridor in Borno
“Our soldiers complain about lack of equipment and weapons, yet their enemies get theirs via military logistics within. Very soon, the terrorists will become the Nigerian force. Nigeria is the only country where terrorists are treated specially than her military personnel.”
@YunusaIbra999 said “the first mistake is selling the uniforms to their staff. That would have opened the door to this business. Imagine would only apply for the uniform to be given free, documented in a systematic database.”
The incident has also fueled broader criticism of Nigeria’s security structure, with some citizens questioning morale within the armed forces and the government’s handling of the ongoing banditry crisis.
Despite the growing backlash, the army has consistently denied claims of equipment shortages among its ranks.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response specifically addressing the viral video or the allegations surrounding it.
