The 82 Division of the Nigerian Army in Enugu has issued a strong warning to residents of the Southeast region, urging them to completely disregard a fraudulent sit-at-home order being circulated by criminal elements. The army described the order as a calculated attempt to create panic and disrupt the economic and social life of the region.
Army Exposes Coercive Tactics
Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, confirmed in a statement released on Wednesday, November 20, 2025, that the division's attention was drawn to a threatening message circulating online. This fake order threatened a lockdown for Thursday, November 20, 2025. Ayeni stated that the message was deliberately designed to instill fear in the public, disrupt sources of livelihood, and destabilize the Southeast.
He emphasized that the public should ignore these messages of fear and coercion, which are spread by groups with selfish interests aimed at hindering the region's progress. Citizens are therefore encouraged to go about their lawful duties and businesses without any fear.
Robust Security Measures in Place
Lt.-Col. Ayeni assured the public that the security architecture in the region is robust and capable of protecting lives and property. He revealed that the 82 Division, in coordination with the Nigerian Police and other sister security agencies, has implemented a comprehensive security plan to ensure the complete safety of all citizens.
Forces have been deployed to safeguard lives, property, and critical infrastructure and to prevent any acts of sabotage or violence. The Army guarantees that freedom of movement is protected, and residents are free to conduct their lawful activities without fear or hindrance. The statement affirmed that peaceful coexistence will be maintained and economic activities will thrive.
Warning to Criminal Elements
The army spokesperson issued a stern warning to criminal elements and anyone seeking to take the laws into their own hands. He stated that anyone attempting to enforce any unfounded illegal order through any means would be decisively dealt with according to the law.
Ayeni described the fake sit-at-home order as an attempt to undermine the authority of the government and the achievements of the security forces in the Southeast, who have succeeded in eradicating the unlawful orders previously issued by proscribed groups. He assured the people that the threats were baseless and would not hold, as no illegal order will be allowed to disrupt the peace and freedom of law-abiding citizens.
The army called on all residents to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of the ongoing efforts to maintain stability, using the slogan: "If you see something, please say something. Together, we will ensure that no threat succeeds in disrupting the peace and unity of our country."
