CLARIFICATION ON NIGERIAN ARMY INTERVENTION AT UKWU OJI UMUBELE, AWKA DURING A RESCUEf OPERATION

Awka, Anambra State | 10 November 2025

The Headquarters 82 Division of the Nigerian Army has issued a clarification regarding a viral social media video that falsely suggests the involvement of a Nigerian Army officer in electoral activities at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

According to an official statement released by the Division, the incident in question occurred on 8 November 2025, when at about 2020 hours (8:20 p.m.), an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received a distress call from NYSC officials and corps members. The report indicated that corps members and other INEC staff were being held hostage by suspected political thugs following the unexplained disappearance of the Collation Officer assigned to the polling unit.

In fulfillment of the Nigerian Army’s constitutional mandate to aid civil authorities and protect citizens, a rapid response team comprising two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately deployed to the scene. Upon arrival, troops encountered a highly tense atmosphere involving several political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who reportedly questioned the presence of military personnel at the location.
Despite the charged environment and provocations, the troops were said to have maintained utmost professionalism and restraint, successfully rescuing the NYSC and INEC officials. The rescued personnel were safely escorted to the INEC office, where the collation of results continued without further incident.
The Army described the viral video circulating online as “misleading and lacking the full context of events.” It emphasized that the intervention was purely a humanitarian and security response aimed at protecting lives and preserving the integrity of the electoral process, not an act of political involvement.
The statement further noted concerns over the conduct of certain political figures during the episode, adding that the Nigerian Army would engage the Anambra State Government to foster mutual understanding and enhance cooperation in future operations.

Reaffirming its commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of democratic institutions, the Nigerian Army urged the public to disregard false narratives and continue supporting the efforts of security agencies in maintaining peace and order during elections.

Signed:
OLABISI AYENI
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations
Headquarters 82 Division, Nigerian Army