By Gabriel Ameh, The Sight News
The Nigerian Army has refuted a viral video circulating on social media alleging that its personnel were involved in electoral activities during the just-concluded Anambra governorship election, describing the claim as “false, misleading, and taken out of context.”
In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters 82 Division, the Army explained that the video stemmed from a rescue operation conducted on November 8, 2025, at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, in Awka South Local Government Area.
According to the statement, at about 8:20 p.m., an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received a distress call from NYSC officials, reporting that corps members and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) staff were being held hostage by suspected political thugs after the sudden disappearance of a collation officer.
“In line with the Nigerian Army’s constitutional responsibility to assist civil authorities and protect citizens, a rapid response team comprising two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately deployed to the location,” the statement read.
Upon arrival, the troops met a tense atmosphere involving several political actors, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who questioned the soldiers’ presence. Despite the confrontation, the troops maintained discipline and professionalism, successfully rescuing the NYSC corps members and INEC officials before escorting them safely to the INEC office, where collation resumed peacefully.
The Army stressed that the viral video “lacks context and has been deliberately misrepresented,” emphasizing that the operation was strictly humanitarian and aimed at safeguarding lives as well as ensuring the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
Headquarters 82 Division also noted the need for improved synergy among stakeholders and revealed plans to engage with the Anambra State Government to enhance coordination and understanding in future operations.
Reiterating its commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of democratic institutions, the Nigerian Army urged the public to disregard false narratives and continue to support security agencies in their efforts to maintain peace, security, and electoral integrity across the nation.
