Tragedy struck in Abia State yesterday morning as suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) launched a deadly assault on an army checkpoint, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers ¹. The attack occurred at the Carpenter Shed, Ekenobizi, along the Onuimo Bridge, a key boundary between Abia and Imo States, at approximately 6:18 AM.
Lt. Col. Jonah Unuakhalu Onah, spokesperson for the Joint Task Force Southeast Operation UDO KA, confirmed the incident, praising the bravery of the soldiers who repelled the attack ¹. The gunmen, identified as IPOB and ESN members, were forced to withdraw with gunshot wounds, abandoning two vehicles used in the assault.
The checkpoint, established just last Thursday, was targeted in a fierce gun battle, causing panic among road users and traders ¹. Lt. Col. Onah appealed to residents to provide credible information to aid in apprehending the fleeing attackers.
This incident highlights rising security concerns in the region, with authorities urging community cooperation to curb criminal activity ¹. The Joint Task Force Southeast Operation UDO KA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
In a separate incident, two students of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, were killed, and two others abducted, with a ransom demand of 30 million naira ¹. Superintendent Bright Edafe, Delta State Police Command spokesperson, confirmed the incident, noting preliminary investigations suggest cult-related involvement.
Efforts are underway to track down those responsible ¹. The killings occurred at a hostel outside the school premises, with one victim identified as an ex-student.
The Abia State attack echoes previous clashes between security forces and IPOB/ESN members ¹ ². In May 2024, unknown gunmen attacked soldiers at Obikabia junction, Aba, killing five soldiers and six civilians [1).
Governor Alex Otti condemned the May attack, offering a 25 million naira reward for information leading to the perpetrators’ capture ¹. The reward was later increased to 30 million naira.
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters vowed to retaliate against the perpetrators, with President Bola Tinubu describing the incident as treasonable ¹. Simon Ekpa, Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, responded, threatening decisive action against Nigerian security agencies.
The ongoing tensions underscore the need for enhanced security measures and community cooperation to prevent further violence.
