The Headquarters 82 Division of the Nigerian Army has dismissed a misleading video circulating on social media, which falsely alleges that the 14 Brigade in Ohafia is issuing residential permits based on ethnicity. The Army described the claims as a “deceptive narrative aimed at inciting discontent among the public.”
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, stated, “The claims made in this video are entirely unfounded and represent a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. This narrative first emerged in 2021 and has been thoroughly debunked. While we usually do not respond to baseless accusations, we feel it is our duty to clarify the facts in this instance.”
Regarding the video, Lt. Col. Unuakhalu explained that it features a residential permit issued to Mr Ibrahim Saleh, who was intercepted by local vigilantes in 2021 while travelling through Isiukwuato Local Government Area in Abia State.
He further elaborated, “This permit was part of the Barracks Investment Initiative Programme (BIIP), which aims to empower military personnel and their families by providing skills development in agro-based businesses, including livestock farming.”
Unuakhalu clarified, “This permit was granted to Mr Saleh while he was working within the framework of the BIIP, which specifically employs a select number of Fulani herdsmen based on their expertise and thorough vetting. It is important to highlight that these permits are retrieved upon the conclusion of employment. The renewed circulation of this outdated content is both misleading and disingenuous.”
He firmly rejected any insinuations of ethnic bias or preferential treatment in the Army’s operations.
“We categorically dissociate ourselves from such claims. The re-emergence of this disproven narrative appears to be an intentional effort to undermine the credibility of the Nigerian Army and provoke unnecessary public anxiety,” he added.
“In an era where misinformation can easily spread, the Army urges the public to remain vigilant and to seek information from credible sources.”
“Headquarters 82 Division is committed to fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity,” Unuakhalu affirmed.
In conclusion, he called upon all citizens and stakeholders, particularly in the South-East region, to work together in promoting peace, unity, and mutual trust for the advancement of national security and development.
