Army Denies Electoral Involvement in Akwa, Says Troops Saved NYSC Members from Thugs
The Nigerian Army has dismissed social media claims linking its personnel to electoral interference in Anambra State.
The Army clarified that soldiers deployed to Ukwu Oji Umubele in Awka South Local Government Area only intervened to rescue NYSC members and INEC officials held hostage by suspected political thugs.
According to a statement from the Headquarters 82 Division, Nigerian Army, the incident occurred on Friday night, November 8, 2025, at about 8:20 p.m., when an officer from the 302 Artillery Regiment received a distress call from corps members who reported being trapped by armed men at the polling unit.
The Division said a rapid response team comprising two officers and 12 soldiers was immediately dispatched to the scene to rescue the victims. Upon arrival, troops met a tense atmosphere involving political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who reportedly questioned the presence of military personnel.
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Despite the tension, the Army said its men maintained “utmost professionalism and restraint,” focusing solely on the safety of the electoral officers. The corps members and INEC officials were later escorted to the INEC office where the collation of results continued without disruption.
“The video currently circulating on social media is therefore misleading and lacks the full context of events,” the statement read. “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 Army further noted that it would engage with the Anambra State Government to ensure better coordination and understanding in future civil–military operations.
It reiterated its neutrality and commitment to professionalism, emphasizing that its role in the democratic process remains limited to protecting citizens and supporting civil authorities when called upon.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to safeguarding peace, protecting democratic institutions, and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians, especially during sensitive national exercises such as elections,” the statement concluded.
By PRNigeria
