The Nigerian military has vowed a fierce and overwhelming response to avenge the killing of five soldiers in Abia State. The soldiers were attacked and killed by gunmen enforcing a sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to commemorate those who died in the 1967-70 Nigerian Civil War.
In a statement on Friday, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, accused IPOB and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), of orchestrating the attack. “We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat,” Buba declared.
The soldiers were stationed at Obikabia Junction in the Obingwa Local Government Area to enforce peace and protect citizens when they were ambushed. Describing the incident, Buba said, “Troops of OP UDO KA deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjoining Aba metropolis in Abia State were attacked and sadly killed by terrorists of IPOB/ESN.”
According to Buba, the terrorists launched a surprise attack using three tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and additional forces from surrounding built-up areas. The unexpected assault resulted in the tragic loss of five military personnel. “The armed forces mourn the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss,” Buba stated.
An investigation into the incident has been launched. Buba emphasized the importance of public support in combating terrorist activities. “Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible. The IPOB capitalised on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops,” he noted.
Buba reiterated the military’s commitment to responding decisively to the attack. “It is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops. The military would be fierce in its response,” he asserted.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State extended his congratulations to the troops and urged them to continue their efforts to dislodge criminal networks. Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Government has appealed to locals in frontline communities to volunteer timely intelligence to the nearest security formations or through the 24-hour Security Operations Room via provided contact numbers.
The Nigerian military’s pledge to respond with overwhelming force underscores the gravity of the situation and the determination to maintain security and stability in the region.