The Brothers Across Nigeria (BAN) International has denied any involvement in political rivalry in Surulere, describing a recent publication linking the group to aspirants for the Lagos State House of Assembly as “false, mischievous, and clearly sponsored.”

In a statement issued on Monday, April 13, and signed by its Publicity Secretary, Bassey Etienam Esq., the organisation said it has “no affiliation, endorsement, or relationship with any politician mentioned in the report.”
“BAN Int’l does not participate in partisan politics, nor do we sponsor, direct, or support the political ambitions of any individual,” the statement read.

The group described itself as “a law-abiding and socially responsible organisation founded on the principles of discipline, excellence, and service,” adding that it “strongly condemns any attempt to drag our name into political violence, unrest, or rivalry.”
BAN also dissociated itself from other fraternities and rejected “any narrative seeking to pitch BAN against any other group.”

It stressed: “BAN does not engage in street rivalries. Our members are guided by the Compass to uphold peace, order, and respect for the rule of law.”
The organisation warned that the publication was “intended to instigate unrest in Surulere, a community that currently enjoys relative peace,” noting that such incitement “is capable of provoking reprisal attacks and endangering innocent lives.”
“We reject it in its entirety,” Etienam stated.

BAN called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies “to investigate the origin of this dangerous publication and hold its sponsors accountable for attempting to breach public peace.”
On a recent killing in the area, the group said: “We commiserate with the family and loved ones of the young man whose life was cut short by the assailants. The loss of any life is deeply painful, and we extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends. We also pray for the repose of his soul.”

The statement urged “members of the public, the media, and all political actors to disregard the false linkage,” adding: “BAN will not be used as a tool for political thuggery, misinformation, or inter-group violence.”
“Our commitment remains rooted in humanitarian service, intellectual development, and nation-building,” it added.

BAN also called on platforms that circulated the report “to desist from further spreading misinformation capable of inciting unrest.”