By Sylvia Kodilichukwu, Enugu
Headquarters of 82 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), has denied recent allegations (not in People&Politics ) that its personnel burnt homes, looted property, and harassed civilians in Umualumaku, Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.
The Division’s Acting Deputy Director, Public Relations, Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, in a press statement, said that the claims are not only false but also a calculated attempt to sabotage the Division’s efforts.
He advised the populace to kindly note that no soldier under the Division was involved in such misconduct, stressing that “our troops operate under strict adherence to the code of conduct in military operations as well as the rules of engagement, thereby ensuring best practices.”
Ayeni added: “The allegation appears to be the handiwork of criminal actors who, in their usual style, orchestrate such malicious reports to smear the image of the Division and undermine its efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment within the area of operation. Their objective is to sow seeds of discord in order to erode the public trust that the Division has diligently built.
“Accordingly, it is hereby reiterated that 82 Division NA is a professional and disciplined force, committed to upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and safeguarding law-abiding citizens. It is important to add that the Division will continue to collaborate with other security agencies, community leaders, and civil society organisations to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those truly responsible for such violence and uncivilized acts.
“Meanwhile, the media is urged to rely only on verified information, as misinformation and disinformation are tools commonly deployed by criminal elements to undermine peace-building efforts.”
