Maryam Aminu
In a significant escalation of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency and counterterrorism efforts, the Nigerian Armed Forces have reported a string of successful operations across the country.
Over the past week, troops have dismantled terrorist networks, seized critical assets, and apprehended high-profile suspects, strengthening the nation’s security and stability.
The information was disclosed by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, underscoring the army’s resolve to defeat insurgency.
Major General Buba expressed that in the North-West region, troops successfully apprehended a high-profile terrorist leader, Abubakar Bawa Ibrahim, widely known as “Habu Dogo,” in Rumji Village, Illela Local Government Area, Sokoto State.
Habu Dogo, a cross-border operative on the watchlist of Nigerian and Nigerien authorities, has long been linked to insurgency activities in the region.
The Director of Defence Media Operations explained that his capture marks a significant victory for Nigerian forces, disrupting a notorious network operating across borders.
The military’s campaign extended to the South-East, where seven leaders and operatives linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN) were detained.
Defence headquarters disclosed that among those apprehended were Dr. Nnamdi Chukwudoze and Chigozie Ezetoha, known as “Chapet,” who were arrested in Anambra State’s Ihiala Local Government Area. Additional arrests included prominent figures such as Mrs. Ngozi Chukwuka and Mr. Oyekachi Ohia in Umuahia South, Abia State, and Elijah Mmaduipeya Obumneke in Imo State’s Orsu Local Government Area.
Over the review period, Nigerian troops reported significant operational success: neutralizing 187 insurgents, arresting 262 suspects, and rescuing 147 kidnapped individuals. Additionally, 39 individuals involved in oil theft were detained, marking substantial headway in the ongoing crackdown on illegal activities in the Niger Delta. The estimated value of thwarted oil theft alone stands at N1.25 billion.
Major General Buba revealed further that the Nigerian Armed Forces seized 205 assorted weapons and a total of 5,241 rounds of ammunition.
Notable items recovered include 89 AK-47 rifles, multiple pistols, fabricated guns, and rounds of various calibers.
This cache is a testament to the military’s proactive approach to curbing arms proliferation across insurgent territories.
He stated that in the Niger Delta, a stronghold for illegal oil refining, troops dismantled 49 crude oil cooking ovens, 98 unauthorized refining sites, and confiscated 1,090,135 liters of stolen crude oil and 873,510 liters of illegally refined diesel.
These actions represent a crucial step in Nigeria’s effort to curtail the economic damage caused by oil theft.
According to Major General Buba, the armed forces are on a path to securing victory over terrorists, who are now left with a stark choice: surrender or face annihilation on the battlefield.
These recent operations underline the army’s unrelenting pursuit of peace and security, aiming to end insurgency and restore stability in affected areas.
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