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Zaporizhzhia– Ukrainian forces captured Nigerian national Kehinde Oluwagbemileke while fighting for Russian military in the Zaporizhzhia region. The 29-year-old had served with Russian forces for five months after joining in exchange for reduced drug charges.
Recruitment Through Legal Troubles
Oluwagbemileke represents thousands of foreign mercenaries recruited by Russia’s Defense Ministry to supplement forces in Ukraine. He agreed to military service in exchange for a reduced sentence on drug-related criminal charges in Russia.
The Freedom of Russia Legion, composed of Russian fighters supporting Ukraine, apprehended the Nigerian national during operations in the Zaporizhzhia region.
Official Confirmation and Details
Ukraine’s “I Want to Live” project confirmed the capture and provided recruitment details. The organization works to encourage foreign fighters to surrender rather than continue fighting for Russia.
“Kehinde is one of thousands of mercenaries from third countries recruited by Russia’s Defense Ministry to fight in Ukraine,” the “I Want to Live” project stated.
The project reports many foreign recruits receive false information about the war’s nature and are treated as expendable soldiers.
Pattern of Foreign Fighter Recruitment
Russia has systematically recruited foreign nationals from developing countries facing legal troubles or economic hardship. Many view military service as an escape route from domestic problems.
Earlier in 2025, Ukrainian forces detained two Chinese nationals who reported similar experiences of coercion and false recruitment promises.
International Response
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs urges foreign nationals to avoid joining Russian military forces. Officials recommend contacting the “I Want to Live” initiative instead of participating in the conflict.
Human rights organizations criticize Russia’s targeting of vulnerable individuals facing legal problems as potential war crimes.
Legal and Diplomatic Implications
International legal experts examine the status of captured foreign fighters under Geneva Convention protections. The cases raise questions about prisoner of war rights for mercenaries versus regular soldiers.
Nigerian government officials have not publicly commented on Oluwagbemileke’s capture. The case highlights challenges African nations face when citizens join foreign military conflicts.
Ukraine documents each foreign fighter capture to expose Russia’s recruitment practices and build evidence for potential war crimes prosecutions.
By Abiodun Labi
