A short video trending across social media platforms has prompted Nigeria’s Army headquarters to open a high-level inquiry into claims that soldiers assaulted a police detective during a village leadership poll in Ebonyi State.
In a release dated 19 May 2025, Army spokesperson Lt-Col Appolonia Anele confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Olufemi Oluyede, has directed “a thorough and transparent investigation” to establish why troops were present at the Mgbom N’Achara election and whether their behaviour breached service regulations.
Lt-Col Anele assured the public that the final report will be published and that any soldier found culpable will face disciplinary action “in line with extant military regulations.” She urged residents to stay calm and continue to support security agencies, emphasising the Army’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.
Civil-rights groups welcomed the announcement but requested independent observers on the panel to strengthen transparency. The Nigeria Police Force has yet to issue its own statement on the alleged assault.
An Army-Police fact-finding team is expected in Ebonyi later this week.
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