The Nigerian Army’s 82 Division has refuted claims circulating in a resurfaced social media video suggesting that its 14 Brigade is issuing residential permits based on ethnicity. The military describes the allegations as misleading and malicious.
The video, which first appeared in 2021, featured a permit issued under the Barracks Investment Initiative Programme (BIIP), a livestock empowerment scheme for army personnel and their families. Officials clarify that the permit was strictly for employed Fulani herdsmen with expertise in livestock management, following proper vetting procedures.
The Army asserts that no formation selectively issues residential permits and denounces attempts to sow ethnic division and undermine its credibility. It urges the public to rely on verified information amid rising concerns about digital misinformation and artificial intelligence-generated content.
Citizens and stakeholders, particularly in the South-East region, are encouraged to foster peace, unity, and trust in the interest of national security and development. “
