The Nigerian Army have gone tough on members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and the Eastern Security Network, ESN, operating in South East Nigeria from the Ajali Forest and its environs. The military utilized intelligence reports on criminal and terrorist activities to storm
the Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State, in clearance operations.
The Commanding Officer of the 103 Battalion, Major Muhammad Buhari Abdulrahman, disclosed that the operation was to clear members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IOPOB, the Eastern Security Network, ESN, and other criminal elements operating in the forest.
The Commander noted that the forest was a hideout for criminals in the state.
The Commanding Officer narrated that the operation began on December 30, 2025, and is ongoing. According to him, “So far, eight camps have been cleared, with improvised explosive devices safely detonated.
“Troops also recovered arms and ammunition, including 197 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and arrested two suspected IPOB members who are currently in detention.”
He added that the operation has entered the clearing phase, with bulldozers deployed to open up the forest and deny criminals any hiding place, while securing the space for farming activities.
Chairman of Ezeagu Local Government Area, Vita Ndoh, admitted that joint security operations, involving the military, police, and DSS was launched after reports that ESN members occupied large portions of forest, causing panic among residents.
Ndoh said the operations ensured a peaceful festive period, with no cases of kidnapping or criminal attacks during the period. He commended the military for their professionalism, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
