The Nigerian Army has refuted claims circulating on social media suggesting that one of its officers participated in electoral activities during the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, the Army clarified that its personnel only intervened in a rescue operation at Ukwu Oji, Umubele, Awka Ward 5, Awka South Local Government Area following a distress call from National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to Ayeni, at about 8:20 p.m., an officer from the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received an emergency report that corps members and other INEC staff were being held hostage by suspected political thugs after the unexplained disappearance of the Collation Officer at the polling unit.
He explained that a rapid response team of two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately deployed to the location. Upon arrival, the troops encountered a tense and chaotic atmosphere involving several political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who questioned the presence of military personnel.
“Despite the provocation and tension, the troops maintained utmost professionalism and restraint,” Ayeni said. “They successfully rescued the corps members and INEC officials and escorted them safely to the INEC office where the collation continued peacefully.”
He described the viral video trending on social media as “misleading and lacking full context,” insisting that the Army’s involvement was purely humanitarian and aimed at protecting lives and upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Ayeni added that the Division took note of the conduct of certain political actors during the episode and would engage with the Anambra State Government to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in future operations.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s neutrality, the statement emphasized that the military remains committed to professionalism and the protection of democratic institutions.
“The public is therefore urged to disregard the false narratives and continue to support the military and other security agencies in safeguarding peace and order during elections,” the statement concluded.