Troops Arrest IPOB/ESN Founding Leader, Commanders in Southeast Operations

In a move to curb insecurity, troops from Operation Udoka have arrested a founding member and three notorious leaders of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) during operations in southeastern Nigeria. The arrests took place in Orsu, Imo State, and Arochukwu in Abia State, as part of the military’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region.

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the arrests, emphasizing the military’s determination to eliminate the threat posed by terrorist groups. “Troops at Forward Operation Base, Orsu, conducted a sting operation that culminated in the arrest of an IPOB terrorist leader. The arrested terrorist leader, identified as Pius Iguh, is a founding father of the ESN group in the Orsu general area of Imo State,” he said.

In another operation, troops arrested Emmanuel Onwugu, an IPOB commander, in Mbano Local Government Area of Abia State. Additionally, a combined raid led to the capture of a notorious cult leader, Ifeanyi Rock, along with ten of his associates in Arochukwu, Abia State.

During these operations, troops neutralized 24 terrorists and arrested 12 extremists, while also rescuing one kidnapped individual. A cache of weapons was recovered, including 10 AK-47 rifles, 15 pump-action guns, four locally made guns, and more than 150 rounds of ammunition. “All recovered items, arrested suspects, and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action,” Major General Buba added.

The military operations, conducted between October 15 and 18, 2024, included engagements with IPOB/ESN militants in Orsu and Obubra Local Government Areas of Imo and Cross River States. Buba stated, “Troops made contact with IPOB/ESN terrorists in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State, leading to a firefight where 24 terrorists were neutralized.”

The crackdown in the Southeast is part of broader nationwide operations targeting terrorist and criminal activities. In other parts of the country, troops have made substantial gains. In the Niger Delta region, they thwarted oil theft worth over N1.75 billion and destroyed numerous illegal refining sites. They also arrested 18 individuals involved in oil theft activities and rescued 76 hostages kidnapped by criminal gangs.

In the northeastern states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralized 43 terrorists and arrested 27 suspects. They rescued 25 hostages and recovered 23 AK-47 rifles, alongside other weapons and ammunition. The military’s efforts extended to intercepting and arresting 12 suspected collaborators of ISWAP (Islamic State’s West Africa Province) between October 15 and 21, 2024.

Major General Buba highlighted the resilience of troops across the country, noting, “Between 15 and 22 October, our forces made significant progress against BH/ISWAP terrorists, neutralizing 23 and arresting 15 suspects in the North-East.”

In the North Central region, operations by troops of Operation Safe Haven resulted in the neutralization of 14 extremists and the arrest of 45 suspects. Troops also rescued 12 kidnapped hostages and seized weapons including AK-47 rifles and mobile phones.

The military’s operations in the North West, particularly under Operation Hadarin Daji, led to the neutralization of 62 terrorists and the arrest of 29 suspects. Troops also rescued nine kidnapped individuals and recovered a substantial number of firearms and rounds of ammunition. “Our operations in Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna states have dealt significant blows to terrorist activities in these areas,” said Major General Buba.

The Defence Headquarters has expressed its commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal groups across Nigeria. As Major General Buba affirmed, “The armed forces remain resolute in their mission to rid the nation of insecurity and ensure peace and stability for all Nigerians.” He further called on citizens to support military efforts by providing timely information to help track down criminal elements.