*82 Division assures full security, vows to crush criminals
By Odita Sunday
The Nigerian Army has declared the South East open, safe and fully secured, dismissing a viral “sit-at-home” directive pushed out by unknown criminals ahead of Thursday, November 20, 2025.
In a strong-worded statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Lt. Col. Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the Army warned that the aim of the fake order was to ignite fear, cripple businesses, and destabilise the region after major security breakthroughs that ended illegal lockdowns.
The Army said its troops, working closely with the Police and other agencies, have rolled out extensive security deployments to protect residents, business owners, and public infrastructure across the region.
“We guarantee unrestricted freedom of movement. No group can intimidate or hinder law-abiding citizens,” the Division assured.
The military urged residents to ignore fear-mongering messages and support ongoing efforts to sustain peace. It also called for vigilance, stressing that public reports of suspicious activity remain crucial.
Issuing a stern warning, the Army vowed that any individuals attempting to enforce the fake order or breach peace in any form would be crushed and prosecuted.