Army Assures South-East of Unrestricted Movement, Dismisses Viral Sit-at-Home Order

The Nigerian Army has dismissed a viral message circulating across social media that claims residents of the South-East must observe a “sit-at-home” order, warning that the threat was fabricated to incite fear and disrupt daily life in the region.

The Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni, said in a statement on Thursday that the message was the work of criminal groups seeking to intimidate the public and undermine stability.

According to him, the threat “is designed to create fear in the public domain, disrupt sources of livelihood, and destabilise the South East region,” but he stressed that the army and other security agencies had already reinforced security across the area.

Ayeni said no unlawful directive would be permitted to restrict free movement, noting that residents were fully protected under the law to go about their normal activities.

“We wish to unequivocally assure the good people of the South East that such threats are baseless. Freedom of movement is protected, and residents are free to conduct their lawful activities without fear or hindrance,” he said, adding that businesses were expected to operate without interruption.

He warned that anyone attempting to enforce the fake order would face the full weight of the law.

“Criminal elements are warned… anyone attempting to enforce any unfounded illegal order will be decisively dealt with according to the law,” he stated.

The army urged residents to ignore panic-inducing messages and remain vigilant, encouraging them to report suspicious activity through the appropriate channels.

Ayeni added, “If you see something, please say something,” while reiterating that security agencies remained committed to safeguarding peace and economic activity in the South-East.