By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Army has dismissed social media reports alleging that its personnel were involved in electoral activities at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 82 Division, LIEUTENANT COLONEL OLABISI AYENI, the Army clarified that the incident in question, which occurred on 8 November 2025, was a legitimate rescue operation carried out to protect National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) who were being held hostage by suspected political thugs.
According to the statement, at about 8:20 p.m., an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received a distress call from NYSC officials and corps members reporting that they and other INEC staff were in danger following the sudden disappearance of the Collation Officer assigned to the polling unit.
In line with its constitutional role of assisting civil authorities and safeguarding citizens, a rapid response team comprising two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately deployed to the scene. Upon arrival, the troops met a tense atmosphere involving several political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who questioned the presence of the military personnel.
Despite the tense situation and provocations, the soldiers displayed utmost professionalism and restraint, successfully rescuing the corps members and INEC officials and escorting them safely to the INEC office, where collation continued peacefully.
The Army stressed that the viral video circulating on social media was taken out of context and does not represent the true situation of events. It emphasized that the intervention was purely a humanitarian and security response to protect lives and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Headquarters 82 Division further noted the actions of certain political actors during the incident and assured that it would engage the Anambra State Government to ensure better cooperation and understanding in future operations.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of democratic institutions. It urged members of the public to disregard the false reports and continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their efforts to maintain peace and order during elections.
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