In a significant development for peace and security in Nigeria's southern region, approximately 80 militants have voluntarily laid down their weapons in Cross River State. The event marks a critical success for the state government's amnesty initiative aimed at ending years of unrest in the coastal areas.
A Voluntary Surrender from the Creeks
The peaceful disarmament occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Atimbo Rear Area of Operation Okwok in Akpabuyo Local Government Area. According to Major Yemi Sokoya, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 13 Brigade in Calabar, fighters from two separate camps emerged from the creeks to submit themselves for the amnesty programme.
The first group was led by ThankGod Ebikontei, alias Ayibanuagha, who presented 39 combatants. The second camp, known as the Akpokolo Marine Forces or Border Boys, was headed by John Isaac, popularly called Akpokolo, and brought forward 41 fighters.
A Substantial Arsenal Relinquished
The former militants surrendered a considerable cache of arms, ammunition, and equipment, demonstrating a genuine commitment to leaving their past behind. The items handed over voluntarily include:
- Three AK-47 rifles and one G3 rifle.
- One Mark 4 rifle and multiple pump-action guns.
- 12 single-barrel guns and 10 AK-47 magazines.
- 19 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and 84 DENGUN cartridges.
- One C4 explosive, assorted military kits, and locally fabricated weapons.
- Three speed boats and four boat engines.
This haul represents a major reduction in the firepower available to criminal elements in the state's waterways.
Leadership Hails Milestone, Outlines Next Steps
Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, Commander of the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, described the exercise as a "major confidence-building milestone." He attributed the success to sustained military pressure combined with constructive engagement and strong collaboration with the Cross River State Government and other security agencies.
"The voluntary surrender and embrace of amnesty by these former militants clearly demonstrates that sustained military operations, combined with constructive engagement and strong collaboration... remain effective tools for restoring peace," General Alimikhena stated.
He confirmed that, after completing the amnesty process, the individuals were formally handed over to the Cross River State Government's Rapid Response Team. They are currently undergoing profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Muka Sam Hotel in Ikot Ansa, Calabar, a crucial step before reintegration.
The Army Commander commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu and the state government for their "unwavering commitment to peace, security, and stability," highlighting that their proactive support was instrumental to the programme's success. He reiterated the Brigade's commitment to working with all stakeholders to consolidate these gains and prevent a relapse into criminality.
General Alimikhena also encouraged the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital for ensuring a safe and secure Cross River State.
