Army Clarifies Role in Anambra Election Incident
The Nigerian Army has officially disputed the authenticity of a widely circulated video that purported to show one of its officers participating in acts of electoral violence. This incident was said to have occurred in the Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The Official Army Account of the Events
According to a statement released by Lt Col Olabisi Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, the video misrepresents the events of November 8, 2025. The situation began at approximately 8:20 p.m. at Ukwu Oji Umubele in Awka Ward 5. An officer from the 302 Artillery Regiment received a urgent distress call from NYSC officials and Corps members. The call reported that INEC staff and Corps members were being held hostage by individuals suspected to be political thugs, a situation triggered by the sudden disappearance of the designated Collation Officer.
Fulfilling its constitutional duty to assist civil authorities, the Army mobilized a response team. This team, composed of two officers and twelve soldiers, was dispatched to the scene. "When the soldiers arrived, they met a tense atmosphere with several political figures present, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who questioned the Army’s presence," the statement detailed.
A Mission of Rescue and Professionalism
Despite the charged environment, the military personnel maintained professionalism and restraint. The primary objective of the operation was successfully achieved: the Corps members and INEC officials were rescued and safely escorted to the INEC office, where the collation of results was able to continue without further disruption.
The Army has firmly described the circulating video as misleading and lacking crucial context. It emphasized that its intervention was solely a "humanitarian and security response to save lives and ensure the integrity of the electoral process." The statement reaffirmed, "The Nigerian Army’s involvement was purely to protect lives. Any other interpretation is baseless, misleading, and regrettable."
In light of the conduct of some political actors during the event, the 82 Division indicated its intention to engage with the Anambra State government. This dialogue aims to strengthen future cooperation and ensure smoother security operations. The Army reiterated its unwavering commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of Nigeria's democratic institutions, urging the public to disregard false narratives and continue supporting security agencies.
In a related development, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who was re-elected for a second term, used his acceptance speech on Sunday to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Governor Soludo praised the President for his firm commitment to democratic values and for facilitating a credible governorship election in the state.
