ARMY CLASH: Nigerian Military Vows to Crush IPOB After Killing 5 Soldiers

The Nigerian military has pledged to take decisive action against the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) following the killing of five soldiers in Abia State. Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, affirmed that the military's response to the incident would be robust.

The soldiers were attacked by gunmen while

enforcing a sit-at-home order issued by IPOB to commemorate Biafra Heroes Day on May 30. IPOB declared May 30 as a day to honor Igbo individuals who perished during the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970.

The Defence Headquarters accused IPOB and its militant arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), of perpetrating the attack. According to reports, the soldiers were attacked at Obikabia Junction in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State.

In an official statement, Major General Edward Buba disclosed that the troops deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint were ambushed and killed by terrorists associated with IPOB/ESN. The attackers, riding in three tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and other vehicles from surrounding built-up areas, launched a surprise assault on the checkpoint.

Expressing regret over the incident, Buba mourned the loss of five military personnel who were killed in the line of duty. He emphasized that each soldier's death in battle represents a significant loss to the armed forces.

Buba announced that an investigation had been initiated into the attack. He underscored the importance of the military's relationship with the local populace, stating that the support of the people is crucial in combating terrorism. He condemned IPOB's exploitation of this relationship to carry out attacks on troops.

In response to the attack, Buba affirmed the military's determination to retaliate against the perpetrators. He vowed that the military's response would be forceful and aimed at ensuring the total defeat of the terrorist group. He reiterated the military's commitment to bringing overwhelming pressure on IPOB to achieve their complete eradication.

The Nigerian military's declaration underscores the seriousness with which it views the security threat posed by IPOB and its affiliates. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in maintaining peace and stability in the region.