Nigerian Army dismisses alleged fresh sit-at-home threat in South-East

The Nigerian Army has urged residents of the South-East to ignore a new sit-at-home threat being circulated online by criminal groups, insisting that the region remained secure and fully open for business on Thursday, 20 November 2025, and beyond.

This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Thursday, the Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Div Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni,

The statement warned that the threat was a deliberate attempt by terrorists to sow fear, disrupt economic activities, and undermine the gains made by security agencies in restoring normalcy to the region.

According to the statement titled ‘Public Notice: South East is Open and Secured for Business on 20 November 2025 and Beyond,’ the Army assured residents that freedom of movement is guaranteed and that no illegal directive would be allowed to interfere with the peace and daily activities of law-abiding citizens.

“The threat message is aimed at disrupting livelihoods and destabilising the South-East. We assure the good people of the region that such baseless threats will not stand,” the Army said.

The statement noted that the 82 Division, working closely with the police and other security agencies, had put in place a comprehensive security plan to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure. Forces have already been deployed across strategic locations to prevent any form of intimidation, violence, or sabotage.

It was urged that citizens disregard fear-mongering messages spread by groups “whose only aim is to create panic and hinder progress,” emphasising that lawful activities should continue without hesitation.

The statement read, “Residents are encouraged to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies. If you see something, please say something.”

While warning criminal elements attempting to enforce any illegal orders to stop it, it pointed out that such actions would be met with decisive legal consequences.

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