…Reaffirms Neutrality in Alesi-Ochon Land Dispute, Pledges Commitment to Peace and Human Rights

The Headquarters of 82 Division, Nigerian Army, has firmly dismissed reports alleging harassment and intimidation of residents of Ochon Community in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State by troops of 245 Battalion. The Division described the allegations as false, misleading and deliberately intended to tarnish the image of troops working to maintain peace and security in the affected communities. In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the Division clarified that troops of 245 Battalion were deployed to the general area strictly for internal security operations. According to the statement, the deployment is aimed at protecting lives, safeguarding critical infrastructure and providing a peaceful environment for law-abiding citizens in the affected areas. The Division explained that the presence of troops in Ikom and Obubra Local Government Areas was in accordance with constitutional provisions and formed part of efforts to support civil authorities in maintaining public order. It further disclosed that following renewed clashes between Alesi and Ochon communities on September 19, 2025, troops under the Division swiftly intervened to prevent further escalation of violence and restore normalcy across the affected areas. The Army stressed that it remains completely neutral in all communal, ethnic, political and land-related disputes, emphasising that it has no interest whatsoever in the ownership, control or settlement of the disputed land between Alesi and Ochon communities. The statement reiterated that the primary responsibility of the military in the area is to maintain peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order that could threaten the lives and property of residents. The Division also reassured the people of Cross River State, particularly residents of Ochon and Alesi communities, of its unwavering commitment to professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities. It urged community leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to embrace lawful and peaceful approaches towards resolving their differences, stressing that dialogue and mutual understanding remain essential to achieving lasting peace. The Division further appealed to members of the public to disregard reports capable of undermining ongoing peace-support operations in the area. It, however, encouraged residents to provide credible information concerning security threats or any alleged misconduct by military personnel through established reporting channels to enable prompt investigation and appropriate action. The Headquarters 82 Division reaffirmed its commitment to working in collaboration with other security agencies, civil authorities and traditional institutions to sustain peace, security and stability across Cross River State.