Nigerian Army Dismisses Viral Allegations of Troop Misconduct in Cross River Crisis

The Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade Headquarters has firmly denied allegations of rape and extortion made against its soldiers in a viral social media video related to recent communal clashes in Cross River Stat

In a statement issued on Friday by Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Major Yemi Sokoya, the Brigade described the accusations as “false, baseless and unsupported by any credible evidence.” The video alleged misconduct by troops deployed during the Alesi–Ochon communal crisis in September 202

According to the statement, soldiers were deployed strictly to support civil authorities in restoring peace and operated under a clear command structure, adhering to rules of engagement and the Army’s zero-tolerance policy on human rights abuses. “At no time during the operation did personnel of 13 Brigade engage in rape, extortion, looting or any form of abuse against civilians,” Sokoya state

The Brigade confirmed that internal investigations were promptly conducted by its Military Police and relevant disciplinary channels upon seeing the video. These investigations reportedly found no evidence to support the allegation

The Army suggests the claims were fabricated to disrupt peace efforts and damage the military’s reputation, referencing a September 2025 report by journalist Efio Ita which indicated the allegations may have been stage

The statement emphasized that operational records and oversight mechanisms were maintained throughout the deployment to ensure accountability. It also noted that no formal complaint backed by medical reports, police records, or sworn statements has been submitted to any competent authorit

The public was cautioned against spreading unverified narratives that could heighten communal tensions and harm civil-military relations. The Brigade reiterated its commitment to professionalism and the protection of lives and property within its area of responsibility.fy.d.s.d.5.e.esponsibility.