According to Ukraine’s “I Want to Live” initiative, an official project that encourages Russian soldiers to surrender and defect peacefully, Oluwagbemileke was apprehended in the Zaporizhzhia region, a key battleground in southeastern Ukraine. His arrest adds to the growing list of foreign nationals reportedly involved in the conflict under the Russian banner.
Ukrainian sources revealed that Oluwagbemileke had been living in Russia for about four years prior to his involvement in the war. His journey into the battlefield reportedly began after he was arrested and jailed on drug-related charges in Russia. After serving time, he was allegedly recruited either by coercion or through a plea bargain to join the Russian military effort in Ukraine, a strategy that has been criticized internationally as exploitative and inhumane.
After spending five months on the front lines, the 29-year-old was caught in a Ukrainian counter-operation. Ukrainian authorities believe that his role within the Russian army may have been as a conscript or support personnel, though investigations are ongoing. Video footage released by Ukrainian channels shows Oluwagbemileke being held and questioned. He appeared physically unharmed and reportedly expressed regret and confusion about his situation.
This case has sparked conversation online and within diplomatic circles, raising questions about how foreign nationals, especially from Africa are being drawn into the war. Advocacy groups and human rights organizations have repeatedly raised alarms about Russia allegedly targeting immigrants, prisoners, and vulnerable populations for frontline duties.
Ukrainian authorities confirmed that Oluwagbemileke is currently in custody and will be treated according to international humanitarian law. It remains unclear whether he will face legal consequences in Ukraine or be repatriated to Nigeria. Meanwhile, Nigerian officials have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the situation.