Following the killing of five personnel of the Nigerian Army code-named OP UDOKA, deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government, adjoining Aba metropolis, by alleged bandits during the sit-at-home declared on May 30, 2024, by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Nigerian Army has threatened that the military would retaliate.
Edward Buba, a Major General and Director, Defence Media Operations, in a press statement made available to newsmen in Umuahia, the Military would be fierce in its response.
Part of the statement read thus, “The military would be fierce in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat.
“Troops of OP UDOKA deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Area, adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State, were attacked and sadly killed by terrorists of IPOB/ESN. The troops deployed to enforce peace in the area and protect the citizens were massed-attacked by the terrorists. The terrorists in three tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and others from built-up areas surrounding the checkpoint, sprang a surprise attack on the checkpoint.
“The attack sadly took the lives of five personnel of the Armed Forces killed in action. The armed forces mourn the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss. Meanwhile, investigations 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 the troops. The military would be fierce in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat.”