Enugu, April 14, 2026 — The Nigerian Army has announced fresh gains in its ongoing operations across the South-East, saying troops have overrun suspected strongholds of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), while recovering explosives and ransom proceeds.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Army said troops under Operation Eastern Sanity, in collaboration with other security components, had intensified offensive actions, forcing criminal elements into disarray.
According to the statement, “troops… have decisively overrun IPOB/ESN strongholds,” adding that sustained pressure backed by “superior firepower, intelligence and joint-force synergy” has continued to weaken the group’s structure.
The Army disclosed that on April 14, joint forces, supported by the air component of Operation UDO KA, carried out a clearance operation in Ajali Forest in Ezeagu Local Government Area. The operation reportedly forced the fighters into a retreat, during which they abandoned key equipment.
It noted that an anti-tank improvised explosive device (IED) was recovered at the scene, describing the failed attempt to deploy it as evidence of the group’s “desperation and declining operational competence.” The device was later secured by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.
The statement added that troops have since taken control of the area, continuing clearance operations and destroying hideouts. It said the use of heavy equipment had “stripped the criminals of cover, leaving them exposed, scattered and unable to regroup.”
In a separate operation, troops of the 82 Division Garrison deployed in Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, reportedly intercepted ransom funds linked to a kidnapping syndicate following intelligence from the Department of State Services.
The Army said the operation led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of a pump-action rifle as well as ₦2 million believed to be ransom money. It added that the suspect and items have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
Describing the operations as a major setback for the group, the Army said the actions had further degraded the operational and financial capacity of IPOB/ESN elements, who are “steadily losing ground, resources and cohesion.”
The military reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations in the region, stating it remains “unrelenting and fully committed to annihilating all criminal and insurgent elements,” while urging continued public support.