Nigerian Army Thwarts Attack by Indigenous People of Biafra Fighters, Detains Two
The Nigerian Army has successfully intercepted an attack by fighters from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Imo state. According to reports, the attack was aimed at the Forward Operating Base and met with strong resistance from the military personnel stationed there. In a statement released by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, it was revealed that a fierce gun battle took place on August 20, resulting in the death of one fighter and the arrest of two others.
The troops from the 34 Artillery Brigade, operating in the 82 Division Nigerian Army, demonstrated their readiness and expertise during the exchange. The irredentist fighters attempted the attack on the Forward Operating Base located at Ukwuorji, along Owerri – Onitsha expressway. However, they were swiftly and effectively neutralized by the vigilant troops who possessed superior firepower.
In other news, a clash between rival bandit groups in Benue state has resulted in the tragic deaths of at least eight individuals. The communities of Chitto and Gbeji in the Ukum local government area were affected by the killing spree. The violence, which commenced on Monday, continued until Tuesday and led to the destruction of a local market. This unfortunate incident follows the recent killing of a ward commander of the Benue State Livestock Guard in the same area. Sources from the region confirmed that five people lost their lives in Chitto on Monday, with an additional three fatalities in Gbeji on Tuesday, August 22.
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Olusola Odumosu, has directed personnel to treat manhole thieves as armed robbers. This comes in response to a request made by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. During a meeting with Area Commanders, District Officers, and other personnel, Odumosu emphasized the need to combat crimes within the city and maintain proper security. He expressed concern over the increasing rate of street light vandalism, theft of manhole covers, railings, and railway sleepers in the FCT.
Furthermore, an optimistic outlook has been presented by former Nigerian leader and ECOWAS Envoy, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, regarding the peaceful resolution of the crisis in Niger. Abubakar conveyed his confidence to reporters after a meeting chaired by ECOWAS Chairman, President Bola Tinubu, which aimed to discuss the situation with the ousted President of Niger and junta leaders. The terms outlined by the junta, led by Abdouramane Tchiani, were presented to ECOWAS. Also in attendance were the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, and the National Security Adviser to the President, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Army’s successful foiling of an attack by IPOB fighters demonstrates the military’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the country. Additionally, the clash between rival bandit groups in Benue state highlights the urgent need to address the escalating violence. The FCT NSCDC’s proactive approach in combating manhole thefts underscores the importance of securing the city and preventing crimes. Lastly, General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s positive outlook reflects the potential for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Niger through diplomatic means.
