By Ojochenemi Onje
Copyright businessday
The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations that its troops are harassing residents of Ochon community in Obubra Local Government Area, Cross River State, over a lingering land dispute with neighbouring Alesi community in Ikom Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Sunday, , by Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters 82 Division, the Army described the reports as “false, misleading, and clearly aimed at discrediting the efforts of troops working tirelessly to maintain peace in the area.”
According to the statement, troops of 245 Battalion, currently deployed in the area, are on legitimate internal security operations to protect lives, safeguard critical infrastructure, and maintain law and order.
The Army stressed that their role is strictly to assist civil authorities in line with constitutional provisions.
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The clarification followed renewed clashes between the Alesi and Ochon communities on September 19, which prompted a swift intervention by troops to prevent further escalation.
The Army said its intervention helped restore normalcy in the affected parts of Ikom and Obubra LGAs.
“The Division has no stake or interest in the ownership, control, or settlement of land disputes between Alesi and Ochon or any other communities.
“Our mandate is solely to maintain peace and forestall any breakdown of law and order that could endanger lives and property”, Army stated.
The Army further assured residents of its professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights, urging stakeholders to embrace peaceful and lawful channels for resolving disputes.
It also encouraged members of the public to disregard reports aimed at undermining security operations and to instead provide credible information about threats or possible misconduct through established reporting channels.
The Division reiterated its commitment to working with other security agencies, civil authorities, and traditional institutions to ensure lasting peace and stability across Cross River State.