Cross River State Record Major Security Breakthrough as 80 Militants Surrender Arms for Amnesty

Cross River State don record big security breakthrough as 80 militants for Akpabuyo Local Government Area voluntarily surrender their weapons. The surrender happen on Friday under the state government amnesty programme, giving hope say peace fit finally return to the troubled area.

Nigerian Army confirm say the militants come out from the creeks early morning January 16, 2026, and report themselves for Atimbo Rear Area under Operation OKWOK. The action show say pressure from security agencies plus dialogue dey yield better result.

People for the affected communities don welcome the development with joy, as many believe say reduced violence go allow farming, fishing and normal business resume without fear.

Cross River State Break Militants Backbone as Two Deadly Camps Surrender

Cross River State security success come as militants from two notorious camps decide to lay down their arms. One group led by ThankGod Ebikontei, wey dem dey call Ayibanuagha, bring out 39 fighters, while another camp led by John Isaac, also known as Akpokolo, present 41 fighters.

Akpokolo group, popularly known as Akpokolo Marine Forces or Border Boys, don dey linked to several waterway crimes before now. Their surrender mark serious blow to criminal activities for the area.

Security analysts talk say as these camps scatter, criminal operations for the creeks go reduce well well, since many experienced fighters don now choose peace path.

Cross River State Hail Army–Govt Effort as Militants Submit Heavy Weapons

Cross River State witness major arms recovery as the surrendered militants hand over dangerous weapons and equipment. Items include AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, G3 and Mark 4 rifles, single-barrel guns, magazines, speedboats, boat engines, one C4 explosive and assorted ammunition.

Commander of 13 Brigade, Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, describe the surrender as big confidence booster toward restoring peace and stability. He say steady military operations and good collaboration with the state government dey pay off.

After the amnesty process, dem hand the former militants over to Cross River State Rapid Response Team, while State Security Service dey profile them for Calabar. Army also praise Governor Bassey Edet Otu administration, say strong civil-military partnership na key to lasting peace for Cross River State.