· Military vows to retaliate
The military has warned that it would be fierce in its response to the killing of five soldiers on Thursday, May 30, 2024, by gun men at a checkpoint at Obikabia Junction in Obingwa Local government Area of Abia State.
The troops, according to a statement issued by Major General Edward Buba, Director, Defence Media Operations, were deployed to enforce peace in the area and adjoining Aba metropolis in order to protect the citizens under the Operation Udo Ka.
The statement indicated that the troops were mass attacked by gun men who the defence authorities have identified as members of the proscribed indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern security Network (ESN).
The military also declared that it would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat, adding that it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops.
Gen. Buba said: “The terrorist in three tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and others from built-up areas surrounding the checkpoint sprang a surprise attack on the checkpoint.”
While stating that investigations are ongoing concerning the attack, the General disclosed that “Overall, it must be reiterated that the lifeline of the terrorist is the people and this situation is no exemption. Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible. The IPOB capitalised on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops. The situation leaves more to be desired.”