Ignore fake sit-at-home order, Army tells South East residents

The Nigerian Army has urged residents of the South East to disregard a new sit-at-home threat being circulated by terrorists, assuring the public that the region remains safe and open for normal activities on Thursday, 20 November 2025, and beyond.

In a statement signed by Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, the 82 Division described the threat as a tactic aimed at creating fear, disrupting livelihoods, and undermining the successes recorded by security forces in restoring peace to the region.

According to the statement, the alleged order being shared online is “fake” and originated from criminal elements desperate to destabilise the South East and obstruct ongoing economic recovery. The Army stressed that security agencies have put in place a robust plan to ensure the safety of lives, property, and critical infrastructure, adding that no illegal directive will be allowed to prevent lawful movement.

The Army assured residents that freedom of movement is fully protected and encouraged them to go about their daily activities without fear or hesitation. The statement emphasised that the region will continue to enjoy peaceful coexistence, as combined forces from the Nigerian Army, police, and other security agencies remain deployed to prevent any act of violence or sabotage.

It further urged the public to ignore messages of fear and intimidation spread by groups pursuing selfish interests, warning that anyone attempting to enforce an illegal order will face the full wrath of the law. The Army also called for continued vigilance and cooperation, asking residents to report suspicious activities, stressing, “If you see something, please say something.”