Nigerian Army Denies Harassment Allegations in Cross River Communal Dispute
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports alleging that its personnel were harassing residents of Ochon community in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State amid a lingering land dispute with neighbouring Alesi community in Ikom Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Headquarters of 82 Division described the allegations against troops of 245 Battalion as “false, misleading, and aimed at discrediting the Army’s peace efforts in the area.”
According to the Division, soldiers currently stationed in the communities are part of internal security operations designed to protect lives, safeguard infrastructure, and maintain law and order in support of civil authorities.
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“Following renewed clashes between the Alesi and Ochon communities on 19 September 2025, troops under 82 Division responded swiftly to prevent escalation and restore normalcy,” the Army said.
The statement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, stressed that the military has no stake in land ownership or communal disputes.
“82 Division wishes to reaffirm its absolute neutrality in all communal, ethnic, political, and land-related matters. Our mandate is solely to maintain peace and forestall any breakdown of law and order that could endanger lives and property,” it added.
The Division also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights, urging community leaders to pursue lawful and peaceful resolutions.
It called on members of the public to disregard “false reports intended to undermine peace efforts” and encouraged residents to provide credible information on any security threat or misconduct for prompt action.
The Army assured that it would continue working with other security agencies, civil authorities, and traditional rulers to ensure lasting peace in Cross River State.
