Nigerian Army Captures Most Wanted Terrorist, Habu Dogo

In a major victory for Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced yesterday that Nigerian army troops successfully captured one of the nation’s most notorious terrorists, Abubakar Bawa Ibrahim, widely known as Habu Dogo. Known for his role in widespread violence, including killings and kidnappings in Sokoto State, Dogo has long been a target for security forces in both Nigeria and Niger, where his cross-border activities had posed a serious security challenge. His capture took place in Rumji Village, located in the Illela Local Government Area (LGA) of Sokoto State.

Major-General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized the significance of Dogo’s arrest. “Habu Dogo is a wanted terrorist on the watch list of security agencies both in Nigeria and in the Niger Republic because of the cross-border nature of his activities,” Buba stated. Dogo’s apprehension represents a substantial blow to terror networks in the North-West region, a hotspot for insurgent activities.

Seven IPOB/ESN Commanders Arrested in Southeastern Nigeria

In a related development, the Nigerian army achieved a significant breakthrough in the fight against separatist violence in the South-East. During operations in Anambra and Abia States, seven commanders and operatives of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), were arrested. Among those apprehended were Dr. Nnamdi Chukwudoze and Chigozie Ezetoha, also known as “Chapet,” in Ihiala LGA of Anambra, as well as Mrs. Ngozi Chukwuka and Mr. Oyekachi Ohia in Umuahia South LGA of Abia State.

These arrests signal a determined effort by the Nigerian army to dismantle separatist networks in the South-East, which have posed security challenges in recent years. Other individuals arrested include Mr. Ifeanyi Eze, Mr. Augustine Udemba, Mr. Onyedikachi Udemba, and Elijah Mmaduipeya Obumneke. According to Major-General Buba, these operations are part of a broader strategy to neutralize threats to national security across Nigeria.

Nigerian Army Nationwide Operations Lead to Multiple Arrests and Rescues

The Nigerian army’s recent successes extend beyond the capture of high-profile individuals. In coordinated operations across the country, the Nigerian army reportedly neutralized 187 terrorists and arrested 311 suspects involved in various crimes, including oil theft and kidnapping. These efforts also led to the rescue of 147 hostages, significantly bolstering public safety in affected regions.

In the North-West, Operation Hadarin Daji neutralized 51 terrorists, arrested 55 suspects, and rescued 81 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered a wide array of weapons, including 26 AK-47 rifles, several fabricated guns, and a substantial cache of ammunition. Major-General Buba highlighted the importance of these operations, underscoring the army’s resolve to dismantle terror cells and restore peace to communities plagued by violence and insecurity.

Sustaining Counter-Insurgency Momentum for National Peace

The Nigerian army’s recent successes underscore the need for ongoing collaboration between security forces and local communities to combat insurgency and crime effectively. The operations carried out between October 21 and 28 spanned key areas in Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, and other states across nigeria. In these areas, Nigerian Army not only neutralized terrorists but also seized weapons and rescued kidnapped individuals, further stabilizing the security landscape.

For Nigeria to achieve sustainable peace and development, experts emphasize the importance of sustained military efforts and community engagement. “It’s imperative for the Nigerian army and the public to create a functioning synergy to eliminate the security challenges that threaten Nigeria’s stability,” Major-General Buba noted. The Nigerian army’s commitment to proactive, comprehensive security measures is essential in creating an environment conducive to growth and prosperity in nigeria.