The Nigerian Army has denied any participation in the electoral activities that took place on November 8, 2025, at the Ukwu Oji Umubele polling unit in Awka Ward 5, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the Headquarters 82 Division, Nigerian Army, provided the following explanation:
Around 8:20 PM (2020 hours), an officer from the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received an urgent distress call from NYSC officials and Corps members. They reported that they, along with other INEC staff, were being held hostage by suspected political thugs. This incident occurred after the unexplained disappearance of the Collation Officer assigned to the polling unit.
The statement explained that in keeping with the Nigerian Army’s constitutional duty to support civil authorities and safeguard citizens, a rapid response team of two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately sent to the location.
Ayeni stated, “Upon arrival, the troops met a highly charged atmosphere, involving several political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who questioned the presence of military personnel.”
Despite the tense and provocative atmosphere, the Nigerian Army troops remained highly professional and restrained. They successfully rescued the Corps members and INEC officials. The rescued personnel were then safely escorted to the INEC office, where the collation process resumed without incident.
The Army dismissed the video currently circulating on social media as misleading and lacking the complete context of the events.
The statement concluded: “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 Nigerian Army affirmed its dedication to neutrality, professionalism, and protecting democratic institutions.
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