BAN Denies Role in Surulere Political Rivalry, Urges Security Probe into ‘False’ Report

Brothers Across Nigeria (BAN) has denied involvement in Surulere political rivalry, describing reports linking it to Lagos Assembly aspirants as false and calling for a security investigation.

BAN Rejects Allegations of Political Involvement

The Brothers Across Nigeria International (BAN) has dismissed claims linking it to political rivalry in Surulere, Lagos, describing a recent report as “false, mischievous, and sponsored.”

In a statement issued on April 13 and signed by its Publicity Secretary, Bassey Etienam, the organisation denied any association with aspirants contesting for the Lagos State House of Assembly seat in the area.

The group maintained that it has no affiliation with any politician mentioned in the publication and does not engage in partisan political activities.

“We Do Not Sponsor Political Ambitions” — BAN

According to the statement, BAN operates as a non-partisan body committed to discipline, service, and social responsibility, stressing that it neither sponsors nor supports political ambitions.

The organisation further condemned attempts to associate it with political unrest or violence, warning against narratives that could portray it as being involved in local rivalries.

It also distanced itself from other fraternities, insisting that it does not participate in street-level conflicts or inter-group confrontations.

Warning Over Potential Security Risks

BAN expressed concern that the publication could destabilise the relative peace in Surulere, cautioning that such reports may incite unrest or trigger retaliatory violence.

The group described the alleged misinformation as capable of endangering lives and undermining public order if not addressed promptly.

Call for Security Investigation

The organisation called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant agencies to investigate the source of the report and bring those responsible to justice.

It urged authorities to treat the matter with urgency, noting that accountability is essential to prevent further escalation.

Condolence Over Recent Killing

BAN also expressed sympathy over a recent killing in the area, extending condolences to the victim’s family and calling for calm among residents.

The group reiterated its commitment to peace, humanitarian service, and nation-building, while urging the public and media organisations to disregard the report linking it to political activities.

Appeal to Media and Political Actors

The organisation advised media platforms to exercise caution in reporting sensitive issues, particularly those capable of inflaming tensions.

It warned against the spread of unverified information, stressing that it would not allow its name to be used for political manipulation, misinformation, or acts of violence.