Anambra Polls: Nigerian Army Rejects Claims of Meddling After Viral Video Circulates
Story: written by Joseph November 10,2025
The Nigerian Army has dismissed claims that its personnel participated in election activities during the November 8, 2025 governorship poll at Ukwu Oji Umubele, Awka Ward 5 in Awka South, Anambra State.
In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, the military clarified that its presence at the scene had nothing to do with influencing the election.
Ayeni explained that around 8:20pm, an officer of the 302 Artillery Regiment received a distress call from NYSC officials, alerting the military that Corps members and INEC staff were being held hostage by suspected political thugs. The situation was worsened by the sudden disappearance of the Collation Officer assigned to the unit.
Following the call, a rapid-response team of two officers and twelve soldiers was dispatched to provide assistance.
Upon arrival, the soldiers met a tense environment involving several political actors, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who questioned the military’s presence.
Despite the heated situation, the troops reportedly exercised restraint and were able to rescue the Corps members and INEC officials without escalating the confrontation.
The rescued personnel were later escorted safely to the INEC office to continue collation.
The Army described the viral video circulating on social media as misleading, noting that it failed to show the full sequence of events.
According to the statement:
- The military response was purely humanitarian
- The goal was to protect lives and support civil authorities
- Any narrative suggesting election interference is “baseless and regrettable”
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its loyalty to democracy, stressing that it remains neutral, professional, and committed to safeguarding electoral processes across the country.
