- Safiu Kehinde
At least two soldiers were killed by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafara (IPOB) and its armed affiliate the Eastern Security Network (ESN) at a checkpoint on Umuahia-Owerri Road in Ekeneobizi Community in Abia, the Joint Task Force for South East Operation UDO KA of the Nigerian Army says.
The incident, as confirmed in a statement issued by Lt.-Col. Jonah Unukhalu for the task force, occurred on Wednesday in Umuahia.
According to the statement, at the early hours of Nov. 13, 2024, troops of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA deployed at a checkpoint along Umuahia – Owerri Road in Umuahia South Local Government of Abia came under attack.
“The attack was (allegedly) carried out by the irredentist group of the Indigenous People of Biafara (IPOB) and its armed affiliate the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“During the attack, the gallant troops were able to repel the attack forcing the irredentist to withdraw in disarray with gunshot wounds, abandoning one Sienna and one Lexus Jeep vehicles that were used for the attack.
“However, in the ensuing firefight, two soldiers paid the supreme price.
“The Joint Task Force is appealing to the good people of South East, especially residents of Abia State for reliable and credible information that could help in apprehending the fleeing members of the group and also help to annihilate the criminals.
“Please note that any relevant information should be passed to Operation UDO KA by dialling *193* and press *Option 2’* on your phone”.
The statement said that the Army would continue to carry out its constitutional roles of safeguarding lives and property and perform it duties in line with global best practices as laid down in the rules of engagement guiding its operations.
Recall that NPO earlier reported the attack which was captured in a viral video on X.
As seen in a now viral video on X, the gunmen cladded in black outfits sporadically fired shots at the deserted checkpoint.
While dismantling the checkpoint, one of the armed men could be heard threatening Alex Otti.
“We are removing it, Alex Chioma Otti, we are removing it. Alex we are giving you people order. We say we don’t need this kind nonsense again.
“Today is 13th of November, 2024. Alex we are dismantling this checkpoint.
“And we are giving you direct order not to come close. If we see this nonsense again, Alex you are gone!” The gunman said.