The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has pledged a robust response following the tragic killing of five soldiers in Abia State.
The soldiers were targeted by gunmen enforcing a sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to honor those who died during the 1967-70 Nigerian Civil War.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, announced the military’s determination to avenge the soldiers’ deaths, emphasizing that the response will be resolute and crushing. The incident occurred at Obikabia Junction in the Obingwa Local Government Area of the state.
The Defence Headquarters accused IPOB and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), of carrying out the attack. Major General Buba described how the troops, deployed to maintain peace in the area, were ambushed by terrorists affiliated with IPOB/ESN. He expressed sorrow over the loss of the soldiers and confirmed that an investigation into the incident is underway.
Highlighting the importance of community support in combating terrorism, Buba stressed the need for solidarity in the fight against such acts. He reiterated the military’s commitment to ensuring the defeat of the perpetrators, urging the public to provide any information that could aid in bringing the attackers to justice.
The Defence Headquarters has affirmed its determination to respond decisively to the attack, underscoring the necessity of countering such violence with unwavering resolve.
As the military prepares its response, the call for unity and cooperation from the public remains crucial in the efforts to combat terrorism and maintain peace in the region.