Tag: Army

Investigations by our correspondent have uncovered disturbing details surrounding one Lance Corporal Festus Igenkhai, a now-disgraced soldier of the Nigerian Army, who has gone rogue after abandoning his post and responsibilities to chase clout on social media.

Enlisted barely four years ago, Igenkhai has since been declared Absent Without Official Leave (AWOL) by the Nigerian Army after he deserted his duty post on November 8, 2024, in clear violation of military regulations. Our checks confirm that he is currently under investigation for gross misconduct, breach of military discipline, and desertion offences considered serious within the Armed Forces.

Before his cowardly disappearance, the soldier had twice faced internal military trials over violations of the military’s strict social media policy, including releasing unapproved content online.
Rather than learn his lesson, Igenkhai became even more brazen, adopting the handle “EX Man” on TikTok, where he now spews reckless and defamatory content aimed at discrediting senior officers including the service chiefs and sowing disaffection within the ranks.

In a string of delusional videos, he peddles unsubstantiated claims and half-baked conspiracy theories, portraying himself as a whistleblower while in reality behaving like a disgruntled dropout who could not live up to the standards of the uniform he once wore. Multiple security sources confirm that none of his allegations have been backed by evidence – just empty noise aimed at misleading unsuspecting viewers and stirring unnecessary tension.

Let’s be clear: this is not a patriot. This is a fugitive a man who betrayed his oath, abandoned his comrades, and now hides behind a smartphone camera to hurl insults at the same institution that once gave him pride, purpose, and uniform.

As things stand, it was exclusively gathered that nationwide manhunt has been launched for Lance Corporal Festus Igenkhai. The security forces are working around the clock to locate and bring him to justice for violating the sacred principles of discipline and loyalty that bind the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed the commitment of Joint Task Force South-East, code-named ‘Operation Udo Ka’, to security and professionalism in all its operations within the South-East.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Spokesman of Operation UDO KA, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, in Enugu on Wednesday.

Unuakhalu noted that the attention of the Headquarters of Operation UDO KA had been drawn to a recent broadcast and publication attributed to Mazi Chinasa Nworu on Radio Biafra and some social media platforms.

He said the broadcast and publication contained unfounded allegations aimed at discrediting the integrity and operational successes of the Task Force.

“Since its inception in 2023, Operation UDO KA has periodically held meetings to assess its operational effectiveness and refine its strategies.

“These reviews are conducted in line with international best practices and underscore the Task Force’s commitment to accountability and transparency. The most recent review meeting took place on May 27, 2025.

“It is deeply concerning that certain individuals appear to be aligned with elements seeking to instill fear and disrupt the peace and security of the South-East region.

“Such individuals circulated narratives that are not only misleading but also detrimental to ongoing efforts to promote stability and safeguard lives and property,” he said.

Unuakhalu, who is also the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 82 Division, noted that the allegations that Army Commanders in the South-East held a meeting “to coordinate attacks on innocent civilians is entirely false and unfounded.”

He said, “There are no plans, explicit or implicit by the Nigerian Army or its commanders, to target law-abiding citizens.

“The narrative is not just a fabrication but a deliberate psychological approach aimed at spreading fear, sowing mistrust, and isolating communities.

“Such misinformation is designed to discourage the public from going about their legitimate activities and prevent students from participating in the papers of ongoing West African Examinations Council (WAEC) scheduled for May 30, 2025.”

The spokesman emphasised that “Operation UDO KA remains committed to its constitutional responsibility of protecting all law-abiding citizens and maintaining peace in the Region.”

He urged members of the public especially South-East residents to disregard the malicious claims and continue with their lawful endeavours without fear or hesitation.

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The Nigerian Army, on Saturday, conducted a major sanitation across selected communities in Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The exercise, which is part of Civil-Military-Cooperation (CIMIC) initiatives of the Nigerian Army, was carried out by personnel of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) and 14 Field Engineer Regiment, both in Onitsha.

The sanitation, led by the Commander of the 302 Artillery Regiment, Col. Adamu Muhammad, focused on clearing refuse dumps and unblocking drainage systems to promote a healthier environment and reduce the risk of flooding during this rainy season.

Speaking at the flagging off of the exercise, Col. Muhammad emphasised the importance of maintaining a clean environment, particularly during this rainy season.

He said that the exercise would spanned 11 neighborhoods in the council area, which included: Mbonu Ojike Street, Fegge, Nimo Street, Bishop Shanahan, Sheba Street, Yahaya Street and Uzodimma Street among others.

The commander noted that the initiative is part of the Nigerian Army’s effort to give back to the communities that support its operations.

He said, “We are committed to fostering a strong relationship with the public.

“A clean environment is crucial for public health and we encourage residents to regularly take time to clean their surroundings.”

The initiative was warmly received by community members, who praised the military’s proactive approach to community service.

Lt.-Col. Onyinyechi Appolonia Anele, who was appointed the first female Director of Army Public Relations, on Tuesday assumed duties at the Army headquarters in Abuja.

She took over from Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu during a handing over ceremony at the headquarters.

In her inaugural remarks, Anele expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede for entrusting her with the strategic responsibility.

“I thank you most sincerely for finding me worthy of this appointment,” she said.

“I assure you and the leadership of the Nigerian Army of my unwavering loyalty, dedication, and results-driven commitment to this role.”

Anele reiterated her commitment to strengthening the Army’s relationship with the media, urging continued collaboration anchored on truth, fairness, and national interest.

“To our friends in the media, particularly defence correspondents, you are our partners in progress,” she said.

“I commend your professionalism in reporting military activities and encourage you to sustain the tempo.”

The new spokesperson pledged to lead the Directorate with transparency, professionalism, and a focus on narratives that reflect the Army’s core values of honour, sacrifice, and service.

She acknowledged her predecessor’s passion, resilience, and professionalism, which contributed significantly to the transformation of the Directorate.

“I count on your continued support as we work together to further enhance the Directorate’s capacity,” she said, addressing the dedicated officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of the Directorate.

Persecondnews reports that Anele’s appointment marks a milestone in the Nigerian Army’s journey towards greater gender inclusiveness and professionalism in public communication.

With a wealth of experience in strategic communication, military public relations, and peace support operations, she is well-equipped to lead the Directorate to new heights.

Lt.-Col. Onyinyechi Appolonia Anele, who was appointed the first female Director of Army Public Relations, on Tuesday assumed duties at the Army headquarters in Abuja.

She took over from Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu during a handing over ceremony at the headquarters.

In her inaugural remarks, Anele expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede for entrusting her with the strategic responsibility.

“I thank you most sincerely for finding me worthy of this appointment,” she said.

“I assure you and the leadership of the Nigerian Army of my unwavering loyalty, dedication, and results-driven commitment to this role.”

Anele reiterated her commitment to strengthening the Army’s relationship with the media, urging continued collaboration anchored on truth, fairness, and national interest.

“To our friends in the media, particularly defence correspondents, you are our partners in progress,” she said.

“I commend your professionalism in reporting military activities and encourage you to sustain the tempo.”

The new spokesperson pledged to lead the Directorate with transparency, professionalism, and a focus on narratives that reflect the Army’s core values of honour, sacrifice, and service.

She acknowledged her predecessor’s passion, resilience, and professionalism, which contributed significantly to the transformation of the Directorate.

“I count on your continued support as we work together to further enhance the Directorate’s capacity,” she said, addressing the dedicated officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of the Directorate.

Persecondnews reports that Anele’s appointment marks a milestone in the Nigerian Army’s journey towards greater gender inclusiveness and professionalism in public communication.

With a wealth of experience in strategic communication, military public relations, and peace support operations, she is well-equipped to lead the Directorate to new heights.