The Nigerian Army’s 82 Division issued a clarification after a video circulated on social media suggesting that an army officer had taken part in electoral activities. The incident occurred on 8 November 2025 at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5, in Awka South, Anambra State.
Around 20:20 hours, an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment received a distress call from NYSC officials reporting that several corps members and INEC staff were being held hostage by suspected political thugs following the unexplained disappearance of the polling‑unit Collation Officer.
In line with its constitutional duty to assist civil authorities, a rapid‑response team of two officers and twelve soldiers was deployed to the scene. Upon arrival, the troops encountered a tense atmosphere that included several political figures, among them the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who questioned the military’s presence.
Despite the provocation, the soldiers acted with professionalism and restraint, rescued the hostaged personnel, and escorted them safely to the INEC office where collation continued without further incident.
The Division stressed that the circulating video is misleading because it omits the full context of a purely humanitarian and security operation aimed at protecting lives and preserving the electoral process.
It reiterated the Army’s commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the safeguarding of democratic institutions, urging the public to disregard false narratives and support the efforts of the military and other security agencies during elections.
