… debunks rumours of political affiliation
The leadership of Brothers Across Nigeria (BAN) confraternity has dissociated the group from the fracas in Surulere, Lagos state which led to the death of a young man.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Bassey Etienam, Esq, the BAN confraternity also debunked the rumours of its involvement in political activities, describing the news circulating in the media as falsehood, capable of inciting public disorder.
The statement is hereunder presented in full:
THE BROTHERS ACROSS NIGERIA (BAN) INTERNATIONAL.
Date: April 13, 2026
RE: MALICIOUS PUBLICATION LINKING BAN TO POLITICAL RIVALRY IN SURULERE
The attention of the Brothers Across Nigeria (BAN) Interhas been drawn to a sponsored publication currently circulating, which falsely attempts to associate our noble Confraternity with the activities of a politician in Surulere and with an alleged political dispute between two aspirants for the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Our Position
BAN Int’l has no affiliation, endorsement, or relationship with any politician mentioned in the report. We do not participate in partisan politics, nor do we sponsor, direct, or support the political ambitions of any individual.
BAN Int’l is a law‑abiding and socially responsible organization founded on the principles of discipline, excellence, and service. We strongly condemn any attempt to drag our name into political violence, unrest, or rivalry.
We completely dissociate BAN Int’l from any other Fraternity and from any narrative seeking to pitch BAN against any other group. 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 publication in question is false, mischievous, and clearly sponsored with the intent to instigate unrest in Surulere, a community that currently enjoys relative peace. Such incitement is capable of provoking reprisal attacks and endangering innocent lives. We reject it in its entirety.
BAN Int’l stands firmly for peace in Surulere and across Nigeria. We call on the Nigeria Police Force, the 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 the tragic incident, 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. While we pray for the repose of his soul.
We urge members of the public, the media, and all political actors to disregard the false linkage. 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.
We also call on platforms that have circulated this falsehood to desist from further spreading misinformation capable of inciting trouble.
Signed:
Bassey Etienam Esq.
Publicity Secretary
Brothers Across Nigeria (BAN) International.
