By Nkechi Eze
The Headquarters of 82 Division, Nigerian Army, has debunked recent reports circulating in sections of the mainstream and online media alleging a protest in Enugu State following the purported discovery of a live explosive device on farmland. The Army described the reports as false, misleading, and lacking credible verification.
In an official signed statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Major Jonah Eromosele Unuakhalu, the Division clarified that preliminary investigations conducted revealed that no such protest took place in Ochima or adjoining communities in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, contrary to the claims made in the media.
“The narrative appears to be a deliberate attempt to incite unwarranted fear and tension within the community and the larger South East region,” the statement read.
Major Unuakhalu emphasized that the Nigerian Army remains fully committed to the safety and security of all citizens, and maintains strict standard operating procedures for the safe handling and disposal of explosive ordnance. These procedures, he stated, are executed in collaboration with relevant security and safety agencies, and are designed to eliminate any risk to the public.
He reassured residents of Enugu State and the South East that investigations into the matter revealed no immediate threat or reason for concern in relation to the reports being circulated.
“We therefore urge members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading false or unverified information,” Major Unuakhalu advised.
He also called on media organisations to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism by verifying facts with appropriate authorities before publication. According to him, the dissemination of unverified reports not only misleads the public but also undermines collective efforts aimed at maintaining peace and public confidence.
The Nigerian Army, through its 82 Division, reaffirmed its ongoing collaboration with civil authorities and other security stakeholders to ensure sustained peace, safety, and security across Enugu State and the entire South East region.
