Military Confirms Killing Of Five Soldiers By IPOB/ESN Terrorists In Abia

The Military has confirmed an attack on its troops by the terrorists of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Abia State on Thursday, killing five personnel.

A statement by the Director Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, said the attack took place at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjourning Aba metropolis, where troops of Operation Udoka were deployed to enforce peace in the area and protect the citizens.

The military also confirmed that six civilians were killed in the cross fire that ensued between the terrorists and the troops.

According to Major General Buba, investigation are ongoing concerning the attack. The military also promised to retaliate the attack on its troops, vowing that their response would be brutal.

“Troops of OP UDO KA deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State were attacked and sadly killed by terrorist of IPOB/ ESN.

“The troops deployed to enforce peace in  the area and protect the citizens were massed attacked by the terrorist. The terrorist in 3 tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and others from builtup areas surrounding the checkpoint, sprang a surprise attack on the checkpoint. The attack sadly took the lives of 5 personnel of the armed forces killed in action.

“The armed forces mourns the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss. Meanwhile, investigation are ongoing concerning the attack.

“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.

“Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops. The military would be fierce  in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure  their total defeat,” the statement read.