82 Division Nigerian Army Denies Allegations of Misconduct in Umualumaku, Imo State
Army Describes Claims of Arson, Looting, and Harassment as False and Malicious
Imo State, Nigeria — The Nigerian Army’s 82 Division has firmly denied recent allegations that its personnel were involved in acts of arson, looting, and harassment of civilians in the Umualumaku community of Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area, Imo State.
In a press statement released by the Division’s spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), the Army described the allegations as completely false and a deliberate attempt to discredit its ongoing peace and security efforts in the region.
"The attention of Headquarters, 82 Division Nigerian Army, has been drawn to recent allegations that its personnel burnt homes, looted property, and harassed civilians in Umualumaku, Ehime-Mbano LGA. These claims are not only false but also a calculated attempt to sabotage the Division's efforts," the statement reads.
Lt. Col. Ayeni emphasized that troops under the 82 Division operate under strict compliance with the military’s code of conduct and rules of engagement, adding that no personnel under the Command were involved in the alleged misconduct.
He suggested that the allegations may have originated from criminal elements seeking to undermine public trust and the reputation of the Nigerian Army. "Such malicious reports are orchestrated by criminal actors whose aim is to smear the image of the Division and disrupt the relative peace being restored in the area," he noted.
The Army reiterated its professionalism and commitment to upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and safeguarding the lives and property of law-abiding citizens.
“The 82 Division remains a disciplined and professional force. We will continue to work in synergy with other security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society groups to apprehend and bring to justice those genuinely responsible for acts of violence,” the statement added.
The Army also appealed to the media and the general public to avoid spreading unverified reports, warning that misinformation and disinformation are often tools used by destabilizing forces to hinder peace-building and community trust.
The Division reaffirmed its resolve to remain focused on its mandate to maintain peace and security across its area of responsibility in the South-East.