The Nigerian Army responded on Friday to the killing of five troops sent to safeguard people in Abia State.
In a statement to newsmen, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, accused the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) of carrying out the heinous deed yesterday.
The Army vowed to respond fiercely to the killing of its personnel at a checkpoint in Abia State.
The statement by the Army reads,“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 and ESN.
“The troops deployed to enforce peace in the area and protect the citizens were massedly 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 five personnel of the armed forces killed in action. The armed forces mourn the deaths 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 exception. 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.”
