By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has dismissed as false and misleading a viral video circulating on social media suggesting that one of its officers was involved in electoral activities in Awka, Anambra State, clarifying that troops intervened solely to rescue INEC and NYSC officials who were being held hostage by suspected political thugs.
In an official statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 82 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, the Division explained that the incident, which occurred on 8 November 2025 at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, Awka South Local Government Area, has been deliberately misrepresented online to malign the image of the Nigerian Army.
According to the statement, at about 8:20 p.m. (2020 hours), an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received a distress call from NYSC officials and corps members reporting that they, along with other INEC staff, had been held hostage by suspected political thugs following the sudden disappearance of the Collation Officer assigned to the polling unit.
Responding swiftly, a rapid response team comprising two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately dispatched to the scene in line with the Army’s constitutional mandate to support civil authorities and protect citizens.
Upon arrival, the troops met a highly charged atmosphere involving several political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who reportedly questioned the presence of the military personnel at the location. Despite provocations and tension, the soldiers maintained utmost professionalism and restraint, focusing solely on the rescue mission.
The statement confirmed that the corps members and INEC officials were successfully rescued and safely escorted to the INEC office, where the collation of results later resumed peacefully.
Lieutenant Colonel Ayeni noted that the viral video currently in circulation does not reflect the true situation on the ground and is “misleading, distorted, and devoid of full context.” He emphasized that the Army’s involvement was purely humanitarian and security-driven, aimed at safeguarding lives and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
“Any contrary interpretation of the incident is baseless, misleading, and regrettable. The Nigerian Army’s intervention at Awka was in direct response to a distress call to rescue citizens under threat — not an act of political involvement,” the statement read.
The 82 Division Headquarters also expressed concern over the conduct of some political actors during the episode and revealed plans to engage with the Anambra State Government to foster mutual understanding and strengthen future cooperation in joint operations.
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of democratic institutions, the Nigerian Army urged members of the public to disregard the false narratives circulating online and continue supporting the efforts of the military and other security agencies in maintaining peace and order during elections.
The Division further assured Nigerians that its personnel will continue to act with discipline, transparency, and respect for the rule of law, even in the face of provocation or misinformation.
