The Headquarters 82 Division of the Nigerian Army has refuted viral claims circulating on social media suggesting that its personnel were involved in electoral activities during a rescue operation at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, the Division described the circulating video as “misleading and taken out of context,” emphasizing that the soldiers’ presence at the scene was purely for a humanitarian and security response, not political engagement.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on 8 November 2025 when a distress call was received at about 8:20 p.m. from officials of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) staff. The distress message reported that corps members and INEC personnel were being held hostage by suspected political thugs, following the unexplained disappearance of a collation officer assigned to the area.
“In line with the Nigerian Army’s constitutional mandate to assist civil authorities and protect citizens, a rapid response team comprising two officers and twelve soldiers from the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) was immediately dispatched to the scene,” the statement read.
Upon arrival, the troops encountered a tense and volatile environment involving several political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who reportedly questioned the presence of the military at the location. Despite provocations and mounting tension, the soldiers maintained maximum professionalism and restraint, successfully rescuing the NYSC and INEC officials without incident.
The rescued personnel were later escorted safely to the INEC office, where collation activities resumed and continued peacefully.
Lieutenant Colonel Ayeni stressed that the viral video misrepresents the Army’s action, as it excludes the vital context that the troops were responding to an emergency to save civilian lives and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
“The Nigerian Army’s intervention was purely humanitarian and in support of civil authorities. Any contrary interpretation is baseless, misleading, and regrettable,” he stated.
The 82 Division also noted the conduct of some political actors during the operation and announced plans to engage with the Anambra State Government to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation in future security operations.
Reaffirming its stance, the Nigerian Army reiterated its unwavering commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of democratic institutions. The statement further urged the public to disregard false narratives and continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their collective efforts to maintain peace and security during elections.