Nigerian Troops Achieve Major Victory Against Separatist Forces in Anambra State
In a significant security breakthrough, troops of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA have successfully dismantled a notorious stronghold belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The operation took place in Mother Valley, Nkwere, Anambra State, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, marking a critical blow against separatist insurgent activities in the region.
Intense Battle and Exceptional Courage Displayed
The combined forces, comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, launched a daring final foot assault on the entrenched terrorist enclave. Despite facing fierce resistance, the troops demonstrated exceptional courage and discipline to penetrate and dominate the valley. According to an official statement released via the Nigerian Army's X handle @HQNigerianArmy on Friday, February 27, 2026, the operation resulted in the neutralization of one IPOB member, with several others fleeing the scene with gunshot wounds.
The statement detailed: "During the intense engagement, the criminals employed locally made hand-held IEDs and heavy gunfire in a desperate attempt to halt the advance. Undeterred, troops decisively overwhelmed the hostile elements, neutralizing one IPOB member while several others fled with gunshot wounds, effectively shattering their defensive positions and operational cohesion."
Weapons and Logistics Recovered in Raid
The successful operation yielded significant recoveries that are expected to cripple the operational capabilities of the insurgent group. Troops confiscated two pump-action guns, one locally fabricated firearm, and one tear gas gun. Additionally, they seized seven gas cylinders, an electric kettle, and various flags linked to extremist propaganda materials.
In a strategic move to undermine the terrorists' sustainability, all life-support structures at their Supreme Headquarters in the valley were destroyed. This included solar panels and a Mikano generator, dealing a critical blow to their operational infrastructure and long-term viability in the area.
Broader Context of Ongoing Security Operations
This latest achievement builds upon previous successes in the military's campaign against separatist threats. Between October 8 and 11, the Nigerian Army reported major breakthroughs, neutralizing 26 terrorists, arresting 22 suspects, and rescuing 5 kidnapped victims across multiple regions. Notable operations included the neutralization of a wanted IPOB/ESN leader known as Alhaji in Ebonyi State and the destruction of an ESN shrine in Imo State.
From Borno to Zamfara, Plateau to Rivers, troops have consistently foiled kidnapping attempts, freed hostages, and seized arms, cash, and drugs in sustained nationwide security operations. In a related development, troops reportedly arrested a deadly Biafra campaigner known as Gentle De Yahoo in Imo state, where he commanded a herd of suspected criminals from his hideout in Aku-Ihube.
The dismantling of the IPOB/ESN stronghold in Anambra State reaffirms the commitment of Nigerian security forces to maintaining territorial integrity and combating threats to national unity. Operation UDO KA continues to demonstrate tactical precision and resilience in addressing security challenges across the southeastern region.
