Nigerian military and IPOB security conflict

Tensions have escalated between the Nigerian military and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) regarding security operations in the South-East region.

On August 21, 2026, IPOB issued a denial against allegations from the Nigerian Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, claiming the Eastern Security Network (ESN) was responsible for attacks on security agents. IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful stated the ESN exists to resist terrorists and bandits, accusing the government of using such claims to justify military operations against unarmed civilians. The group also disputed reports from the Nigerian Army regarding a joint operation in Anambra State, asserting they hold no camps in the Ihiala Local Government Area.

On August 22, 2026, the Nigerian Army reported successful operations under the Joint Task Force South East (Operation UDO KA). A multi-agency team—including the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, Nigerian Navy, 302 Artillery Regiment, and local community operatives—conducted a dawn raid in the Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State. After trekking for approximately four hours through dense palm forests, the team engaged suspects in a prolonged gun battle.

Reports from the Ogbaru operation indicate that the encounter resulted in the deaths of six suspected members of an armed group, identified by some reports as secessionists linked to IPOB and the ESN. During the engagement, a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated, killing one security operative and injuring another. Security forces reported dismantling the group’s camps and structures, while recovering two pump-action firearms, motorcycles, and materials used for manufacturing IEDs.