Army Overruns IPOB/ESN Strongholds, Recovers Explosives and Ransom Funds

T Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified offensive operations across the South-East, successfully overrunning strongholds linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

In a statement on Tuesday, the Army said sustained pressure backed by intelligence and joint-force collaboration has left the group weakened and disorganised, forcing its members to abandon key assets and retreat from operational bases.

On April 14, 2026, troops of Sector 1, with support from the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, carried out a targeted clearance operation in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State. During the operation, suspected IPOB/ESN elements fled, leaving behind an anti-tank Improvised Explosive Device (IED), which was later secured by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.

The Army said the development highlights what it described as the group’s “declining operational capability,” adding that troops have since taken control of the area and destroyed several hideouts to prevent regrouping.

In a related operation, troops of the 82 Division Garrison in Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, acting on intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), intercepted suspected ransom proceeds linked to a kidnapping syndicate. A suspect was arrested during the raid, while a pump-action rifle and ?2 million believed to be ransom money were recovered.

The suspect and recovered items have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.

The Army noted that the operations have significantly degraded the operational and financial capacity of IPOB/ESN elements, stressing that efforts are ongoing to dismantle all criminal networks in the region.

“The Nigerian Army remains unrelenting and fully committed to annihilating all criminal and insurgent elements, denying them any sanctuary. We assure law-abiding citizens of our unwavering resolve to protect lives and property as operations intensify to restore enduring peace and stability across the South-East.”