Nigerian Army Denies Electoral Malpractice Claims
The Nigerian Army has denied allegations that its personnel were involved in electoral malpractice during the recent governorship election in Anambra State. According to the army, their presence at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, was part of a humanitarian rescue mission and not related to political activities.
In a statement released on its official social media pages, the Headquarters 82 Division of the Nigerian Army addressed claims made by a viral video that suggested military involvement in political activities. The statement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, described the video as “false, misleading, and taken out of context.”
The incident occurred after a distress call was received by an officer from the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) at approximately 8:20 p.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025. The call came from NYSC officials and corps members who reported being held hostage by suspected political thugs. The distress call followed the unexplained disappearance of the Collation Officer assigned to the polling unit.
A rapid response team consisting of two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately deployed to the scene. Upon arrival, the troops encountered a “highly charged atmosphere” involving several political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who reportedly questioned the soldiers’ presence.
Despite the tension at the scene, the Nigerian Army maintained professionalism and restraint, successfully rescuing the corps members and INEC officials. The rescued personnel were then escorted safely to the INEC office, where the collation process continued peacefully.
The Army emphasized that its actions were in line with its constitutional mandate to assist civil authorities and protect citizens during emergencies, especially in volatile election environments. The statement added that the video currently circulating on social media is misleading and lacks the full context of events.
“The Nigerian Army’s intervention was purely a humanitarian and security response aimed at protecting lives and preserving the integrity of the electoral process. Any contrary interpretation is baseless, misleading, and regrettable,” the statement said.
Lieutenant Colonel Ayeni disclosed that the 82 Division would engage the Anambra State Government to address the conduct of certain political actors and strengthen cooperation in future operations. Reaffirming the Army’s neutrality, professionalism, and commitment to democracy, the statement urged the public to “disregard false narratives” and continue supporting efforts by security agencies to safeguard peace and order during elections.
“The Nigerian Army reiterates its commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of democratic institutions,” Ayeni concluded.
The clarification came after heightened speculation on social media following a video of soldiers interacting with political figures in Awka went viral. The video sparked public debate about military involvement in the electoral process.
Key Details from the Statement
- The Nigerian Army received a distress call from NYSC officials and corps members who were allegedly held hostage by suspected political thugs.
- A rapid response team was deployed to the scene, which included two officers and twelve soldiers.
- The troops encountered a tense situation involving political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State.
- Despite the provocation, the soldiers maintained professionalism and successfully rescued the affected personnel.
- The rescued individuals were escorted to the INEC office, where the collation process resumed without further issues.
- The Army emphasized that its actions were in line with its constitutional duties to protect citizens and assist civil authorities during emergencies.
- The video circulating online was described as misleading and lacking the full context of the events.