By Augustine Ehikioya
Ahead of the forthcoming Anambra State Gubernatorial Election slated for next weekend, troops of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army on Friday foiled various attacks by gunmen of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN).
In the encounters, four of their gunmen have been neutralized by the troops.
A statement issued on Saturday by the Director Army Public Relations,
Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), said the attacks are part of the plans of the proscribed body to instill fear in the people ahead of the election.
It reads “Troops of 82 Division Nigerian Army conducting Exercise GOLDEN DAWN have neutralised four gunmen of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) in a fierce encounter at Nnobi Junction, Idemili South Local Government Area on Friday 29th October, 2021.
“This followed the assailants’ armed attack on personnel of security agencies deployed at Ekwulobia Round About in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, during which troops swiftly mobilized to the scene and subsequently embarked on pursuit of the criminals along Nnewi – Nnobi road.
“Troops made contact with the fleeing gunmen and engaged them in a fire fight, neutralizing four of the criminals.”
The gallant troops, the statement said, also recovered two AK-47 Rifles, one GALIL Ace 5.56 x 45 Iwi Gun, one Avofeng Hand held radio and one Black Highlander jeep.
“Sadly, a personnel of one of the security agencies paid the supreme price,” the statement added.
It went on “In a separate operation, troops have foiled another attack by IPOB/ESN gunmen at Umunze Checkpoint, in Orumba South Local Government Area.
“The vigilant troops overwhelmed the attackers in the shootout that ensued, forcing them to take to their heels, abandoning, one Pump Action gun with nine cartridges, one dark blue Ford and four motorcycles, which the troops have recovered.
“The Nigerian Army notes that the recent attacks are part of proscribed IPOB/ESN plan to instil fear into the public and sabotage forthcoming Anambra State Governorship Election.”
The statement reassured members of the public that the Nigerian Army, sister services and other security agencies will not relent in “resolutely confronting all criminals intents against the citizenry and national interest.
“Law abiding citizens are enjoined to continue to go about their daily activities without any fear. They are also encouraged to report any unusual activity observed across Anambra State to the nearest security post,” it stated.