Killing of five Soldiers: Tension Rises in Aba as Markets, Schools Shut Down

Markets and public facilities have reportedly been shut down in Aba, Abia State, amid rising tension following the killing of five soldiers by gunmen suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

NIGERIA NEWS 247 reports that the gunmen attacked a military checkpoint at Obikabia junction, Ogbor Hill in Obingwa Local Government Area on Thursday. This attack occurred while IPOB was enforcing a sit-at-home order to mark the 2024 Biafra Heroes Day.

The attack resulted in the deaths of five soldiers—Sergeant Charles Ugochukwu, Sergeant Bala Abraham, Corporal Gideon Egwe, Corporal Ikpeama Ikechukwu, and Corporal Augustine Emmanuel—and the destruction of two military patrol vans. At least six civilians were also killed in the crossfire.

In response, the Defence Headquarters vowed a fierce retaliation, accusing IPOB and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), of the attack. Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that the military would exert overwhelming pressure to ensure the group’s total defeat.

Following the military’s statement, tension escalated in Aba. Two military helicopters were seen hovering over Ogbor Hill and its surroundings, causing fear among residents. Several schools closed on Friday in response to the military’s announcement.

Goodluck Ibem, President General of the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), reported that the military shut down four markets: Ngwa Road Market, Alaoji Market, Cemetery Market, and Enyimba Market. Roads leading to military checkpoints were blocked, halting vehicular movement in affected areas.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Chinaka Maureen, declined to comment, stating it was a military matter. However, a police source confirmed the situation and urged residents to help identify the assailants, suggesting this was the only way to prevent further military action.

In response to the killings, the Abia State government announced a N25 million bounty for information leading to the arrest of the killers. Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, assured that informants would be treated with confidentiality.

President Bola Tinubu also condemned the killings, stating that the federal government would take decisive action against the perpetrators. He emphasized that no one should have the audacity to kill state agents and affirmed the government’s capability to crush violent non-state actors.