Anambra Poll: Army Troops Rescue INEC, NYSC Officials from Political Thugs in Awka — Refutes Election Interference Claims

…As 82 Division Nigerian Army says viral video misrepresents operation, insists mission was purely humanitarian and security-driven.

The Nigerian Army has refuted claims circulating on social media alleging the involvement of one of its officers in electoral activities at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka, during the gubernatorial polls held on last week Saturday, November 8.

This was revealed in a statement released and signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 82 Division, the Army described the reports as “false, misleading and lacking full context.”

According to the statement, the incident occurred at about 8:20 p.m. when an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) received a distress call from NYSC officials and INEC staff who reported being held hostage by suspected political thugs following the disappearance of a collation officer at the polling unit.

While reacting to the incident, the Army said a rapid response team comprising two officers and twelve soldiers was immediately deployed to the scene in line with its constitutional duty to support civil authorities and protect lives.

“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,”
the statement noted.

Despite the tense situation, the troops reportedly maintained professionalism and restraint, successfully rescuing the corps members and INEC officials.

The rescued individuals were safely escorted to the INEC office, where collation later continued peacefully.

The Army stressed that its intervention was purely a humanitarian and security response aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens and the integrity of the electoral process, adding that any claim suggesting political interference was “baseless and regrettable.”

Headquarters 82 Division further expressed concern over the conduct of certain political actors during the episode and disclosed plans to engage with the Anambra State Government to foster better cooperation in future operations.

While the Nigerian Military is reaffirming its neutrality and professionalism, the Nigerian Army urged the public to disregard false narratives and continue to support the efforts of security agencies in maintaining peace and order during elections