Suspected members of the proscribed Eastern Security Network (ESN) and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) launched a deadly assault on an army checkpoint in Abia State, resulting in the tragic deaths of two soldiers in a fierce gun battle.
The incident occurred early yesterday morning at the Carpenter Shed, Ekenobizi, along the Onuimo Bridge, a well-known boundary between Abia and Imo States.
Sources confirm that the attack took place around 6:18 AM, causing panic among road users and traders as gunfire erupted at the checkpoint, which was established only last Thursday to bolster security in the area.
Lt. Col. Jonah Unuakhalu Onah, speaking on behalf of the Joint Task Force Southeast Operation UDO KA, confirmed the attack in a statement, emphasizing the bravery of the soldiers who confronted the gunmen.
“The gallant troops repelled the attack, forcing the irredentist IPOB and ESN to withdraw in disarray with gunshot wounds, abandoning one Sienna and one Lexus Jeep vehicles used for the attack. However, in the ensuing firefight, two soldiers paid the supreme price,” Onah stated.
He appealed to residents of Abia and the Southeast region to come forward with “relevant, reliable, and credible information that could help in apprehending the fleeing members of the irredentist group” responsible for the attack.
“The Joint Task Force Southeast Operation UDO KA will continue to carry out its constitutional roles of safeguarding lives and property in line with global best practices as laid down in the rules of engagement guiding its operations,” he added.
In a separate incident that has stirred concern, two students of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, were reportedly killed on Sunday, while two others were abducted with a ransom of 30 million naira demanded by their kidnappers.
According to a source, the attack occurred at a hostel outside the school premises, with one of the victims identified as an ex-student.
Superintendent Bright Edafe, spokesman for the Delta State Police Command, confirmed the incident but noted that he had no information on any ransom demand.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the killings may be cult-related,” he said, adding that efforts are ongoing to track down those responsible.
These violent incidents highlight rising security concerns in the region, with authorities and security forces calling for community cooperation to curb criminal activity and ensure the safety of residents.
