By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of Operation UDO KA have recorded a major breakthrough with the arrest of a notorious IPOB/ESN terrorist commander identified as “Gentle”, who had long been on the military’s wanted list. The arrest, which also led to the capture of eight other criminal elements, followed a series of coordinated offensive operations conducted between 8 and 13 October 2025 in Owerri West and Mbaitoli Local Government Areas of Imo State as well as Izzi and Ohaukwu LGAs of Ebonyi State. During the operation, troops recovered weapons, ammunition, and a vehicle from the suspects.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, made this known while briefing journalists during the weekly press briefing on ongoing military operations across the country for the week ending 16 October 2025. He praised the discipline, commitment, and gallantry of troops across all operational theatres, noting that the arrests reflect the Armed Forces’ resolute stance against terrorism and criminality nationwide.
“Over the past weeks, we have recorded significant successes across various operational theatres, reflecting the strength of our strategic planning and the courage of our personnel on the ground, in the air, and at sea,” Kangye said.
“These accomplishments underscore our commitment to national security, regional stability, and international cooperation.”
In a related development, troops also arrested a female IPOB/ESN collaborator and logistics supplier on 13 October 2025 in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State. During the operation, three children were found in her custody. Investigations later revealed that they are the biological children of a wanted IPOB/ESN leader, Maduabuchi Nwankwo, otherwise known as Emergency, who is reportedly her relation.
Across other operational theatres, the Armed Forces continued to achieve notable gains:
- Operation HADIN KAI (North East): Troops neutralized several Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, arrested informants and logistics suppliers, and rescued kidnapped victims in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. Weapons, vehicles, and over ₦5 million were recovered.
- Operation FANSAN YAMMA (North West): Troops killed terrorists, arrested 14 suspects, rescued six kidnapped victims, and recovered arms, ammunition, and vehicles during operations in Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Niger States.
- Operation ENDURING PEACE (North Central): Troops thwarted terrorist attacks in Plateau and Kaduna States, killing several extremists and arresting 11 suspects, while recovering weapons and motorcycles.
- Operation WHIRL STROKE: Conducted in Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, and the FCT, troops killed criminals, arrested 12 suspects, and rescued 17 kidnapped victims.
- Operation DELTA SAFE (South South): Troops foiled oil theft worth over ₦98.7 million, destroyed illegal refining sites, and arrested 13 oil thieves in the Niger Delta region.
Major General Kangye commended the gallant officers and men of the Armed Forces for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice, stressing that recent operational successes—whether in counterterrorism, anti-banditry, or maritime security—represent clear evidence of Nigeria’s advancing security efforts.
“Our recent achievements are not just victories on the battlefield, but demonstrations of our resolve to secure every inch of our nation,” he stated.
He further paid tribute to fallen heroes and personnel who continue to serve with distinction, reaffirming that the Armed Forces remain resilient, mission-ready, and committed to upholding their constitutional duty.
“With the cooperation of all stakeholders and the support of patriotic Nigerians, we will continue to advance towards a safer and more secure Nigeria,” Kangye concluded.
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