The Nigerian Army has accused the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) of killing two soldiers in Umuahia, Abia State capital, on Wednesday.
Naija News reported that unknown gunmen attacked troops of the Joint Task Force South-East Operation, code-named UDO KA, deployed at a checkpoint along Umuahia-Owerri Road, in Umuahia South local government area.
Lt. Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, in a statement, on Wednesday, said the attack was carried out by “irredentist group of the IPOB, and the ESN“.
The statement urged “the South-East people in general and the state, in particular, to furnish the Army with relevant, reliable and credible information that could help in apprehending the suspects“.
“Please note that any relevant information should be passed to Operation UDO KA by dialing 193 and press Option 2’ on your phone,” Lt. Col. Unuakhalu’s statement added.
He added that the Army will continue to carry out its constitutional role of safeguarding lives and property in line with global best practices as laid down in the rules of engagement guiding its operations.
Recall that Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, had called on the federal government to facilitate the repatriation of ESN commander, Simon Ekpa, whom he accused of being responsible for insecurity in the South East.
Governor Mbah also accused the Finland-based Ekpa of using the gunmen to enforce sit-at-home and carrying out criminal activities in the region.