‘We’ll respond fiercely’ — military promises reprisal over killing of soldiers in Abia

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has promised to revenge the killing of five soldiers in Obingwa LGA of Abia state.

The soldiers were killed on May 30 by gunmen who were reportedly enforcing the sit-at-home directive of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The gunmen opened fire on a military checkpoint in Obikabia junction in the LGA, killing the soldiers. 

The governors of the region and Ben Kalu, deputy speaker of the house of representatives, have condemned the murder.

In a statement, Edward Buba, director of defence media operations, said the military will strike back.

“Troops of OP UDO KA deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State were attacked and sadly killed by terrorists of IPOB/ESN,” the statement reads.

“The troops deployed to enforce peace in the area and protect the citizens were massively attacked by the terrorists.

“The terrorists, in three-tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and others from built-up areas surrounding the checkpoint, sprang a surprise attack on the checkpoint. The attack sadly took the lives of 5 personnel of the armed forces killed in action.

“The armed forces mourns the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss.

“Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing concerning the attack. Overall, it must be reiterated that the lifeline of the terrorist is the people and this situation is no exemption.

“Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible. The IPOB capitalised on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops. The situation leaves more to be desired.

“Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops. The military would be fierce in its response.

“We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat.”