The Nigerian Army has confirmed the tragic loss of two soldiers in an attack by the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in Imo State. The incident also resulted in the theft of military weapons and one soldier reported missing.
IPOB, a separatist organization advocating for the re-establishment of the Republic of Biafra, claims long-standing marginalization of the South-East region since the Biafra-Nigeria civil war.
According to an official statement released on Saturday, the attack occurred in Osina, Ideator North Local Government Area of Imo State. Troops from the 34 Artillery Brigade were responding to a distress call regarding an IPOB/ESN assault on the Osina community when they engaged in combat with the attackers. The statement noted that some of the ESN fighters were killed, although no specific numbers were provided, while others retreated in disarray.
“Regrettably, two soldiers were killed in action, and one remains missing. The attackers also seized an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher,” the statement confirmed. The bodies of the fallen soldiers have been recovered, and efforts to track down the perpetrators continue.
Further clashes ensued at Nkwachi Community, where the army neutralized one ESN member and recovered an AK-47 rifle with a loaded magazine. Pursuit of the remaining attackers led to another confrontation in Umalouma Forest, resulting in the recovery of additional weapons, including five AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, and several magazines.
The army emphasized ongoing operations to dismantle ESN strongholds, urging IPOB/ESN members to surrender. “Troops will ensure a peaceful Yuletide season in Imo State, free from fear and intimidation,” the statement assured.
The military appealed to Imo State residents for continued support by providing intelligence on the movements and hideouts of these “terrorists.”
This incident occurs amid ongoing tensions in Imo State, which has experienced significant unrest following political upheavals and controversial leadership changes since 2021. Reports have highlighted frequent military operations in the region, often resulting in community and market disruptions under the pretext of combating separatist activities.
