The Nigerian Army has denied being involved in the electoral activities on 8 November 2025 at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Lieutenant Colonel, Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 82 Division, Nigerian Army, said, “Approximately at about 2020 hours (8:20 pm), an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received a distress call from NYSC officials and Corps members reporting that corps members and other INEC staff were being held hostage by suspected political thugs.
“The report followed the unexplained disappearance of the Collation Officer assigned to the polling unit.”
According to the statement, in line with the Nigerian Army’s constitutional responsibility to aid civil authorities and protect citizens, a rapid response team consisting of two officers and twelve soldiers was promptly deployed to the scene.
“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,” he said.
He said despite the provocation at the scene, Nigerian Army troops maintained utmost professionalism and restraint, successfully rescuing the corps members and INEC officials, adding that the rescued personnel were subsequently escorted safely to the INEC office, where collation continued peacefully.
“The video currently circulating on social media is therefore 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 added.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality, professionalism and the protection of democratic institutions.
