The Nigerian Army has apprehended two members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) named Ifeanyi Godwin and Uche Onuoha in Anambra State. The suspects were intercepted in a Toyota Highlander SUV near Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, where they were found in possession of two pump-action rifles, 41 cartridges, a handheld communication radio, and ritualistic items. According to a Nigerian Army statement on Wednesday, both Godwin and Onuoha have been on the Nigeria Police wanted list since 2023, with preliminary investigations linking Godwin to a hotel allegedly used as an IPOB/ESN operations base funded by kidnapping proceeds.
In a related operation, troops raided the residence of a suspected kidnapping kingpin, Bello Chikidawoje, in Bodija Area of Ibadan North LGA, Oyo State. This raid resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, loaded magazines hidden inside an animal’s cage, and additional ammunition. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend Chikidawoje and dismantle his criminal network.
Furthermore, in Katsina State, troops responded swiftly to terrorists blocking roads in Ruma, Yargamji, and Batsari, engaging them in a gun battle that forced the terrorists to retreat. Three empty AK-47 magazines were recovered along the terrorists’ escape route. In Kankara LGA, troops thwarted a potential terrorist attack on villagers returning from the market, neutralizing one terrorist, seizing an AK-47 rifle, and preventing further violence.
The Nigerian Army continues to conduct operations aimed at maintaining security and dismantling criminal activities across various states in the country.