Troops of the Nigerian Army (NA) under Operation EASTERN SANITY have stepped up offensive operations across the South-East, overrunning IPOB/ESN strongholds and forcing the group into disarray.
Sustained pressure from the military, backed by superior firepower, intelligence, and joint-force coordination, is increasingly exposing what officials describe as the group’s weakening structure and inability to withstand prolonged attacks.
On April 14, 2026, joint troops of Sector 1, supported by the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, carried out a precision strike and clearance mission in Ajali Forest, located in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The operation forced IPOB/ESN fighters into a chaotic retreat, abandoning key assets, including an anti-tank Improvised Explosive Device (IED). Military sources said the failed attempt to deploy the device highlights the group’s desperation and declining operational capability. The IED was later secured by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, preventing potential casualties.
Following the raid, troops established firm control over the area and intensified clearance operations, dismantling suspected hideouts. Using heavy equipment such as chainsaws and bulldozers, the army destroyed cover used by the group, leaving members exposed and unable to regroup or mount further resistance.
In a separate intelligence-led operation on the same day, troops of 82 Division Garrison stationed at Adani in Uzo-Uwani LGA, acting on information provided by the Department of State Services, tracked and intercepted ransom proceeds linked to a kidnapping syndicate.
The operation led to the arrest of a suspected kidnap kingpin and uncovered further evidence of the group’s reliance on criminal activities to sustain its operations.
A search of the suspect’s residence resulted in the recovery of a pump-action rifle and the sum of Two Million Naira (₦2,000,000), believed to be ransom funds. The suspect, along with the recovered items, has been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation aimed at identifying and apprehending other members of the network.
Military authorities say the operations have significantly degraded the operational and financial capacity of IPOB/ESN, noting that the group is steadily losing ground, resources, and cohesion under sustained pressure.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating all criminal and insurgent elements and assured citizens of continued efforts to safeguard lives and property. Residents were also urged to support ongoing operations as the military intensifies efforts to restore lasting peace and stability in the South-East.
