Gunmen launched an early morning attack on a military checkpoint in Ekenobizi, a border area between Abia and Imo states, killing two soldiers. The assault occurred around 6:18 a.m. on Wednesday in Umuopara, Umuahia South Local Government Area.
A military source revealed that the attackers arrived in a white Lexus but could not confirm their exact number.
In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA confirmed the incident, attributing the attack to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“Troops of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, stationed along the Umuahia–Owerri Road, were attacked by this irredentist group,” the statement read.
“The gallant troops repelled the assault, forcing the attackers to retreat with gunshot wounds and abandoning a Sienna and a Lexus Jeep. Unfortunately, two soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice in the firefight.”
The Joint Task Force called on residents, particularly in Abia State, to provide credible information to aid in capturing the attackers.
The force reiterated its dedication to safeguarding lives and property while following international standards and engagement rules.
