Nigerian Army Addresses Rumors of Attack on Soldiers in Ehime Mbano
The 82 Division of the Nigerian Army has issued a statement regarding false reports circulating online about an alleged attack on troops at the Ehime Mbano Local Government Secretariat, which supposedly resulted in multiple deaths among soldiers and civilians.
These claims are entirely unfounded and stem from the actions of the terrorist group IPOB/ESN and their supporters, who aim to create unrest in Imo State and the wider South East region. It’s worth noting that on October 3, 2023, the Isiala Mbano Local Government Headquarters was set on fire by these same criminal elements. A similar attack occurred at the Ehime Mbano LGA Secretariat on October 8, 2024.
Fortunately, the prompt and brave response of the troops prevented the criminals from breaching the Secretariat. The assailants, who arrived in large numbers and opened fire from a distance, were quickly forced to retreat due to the superior firepower of the soldiers. A follow-up operation on October 9, 2024, indicated that the attackers had sustained heavy losses, as evidenced by bloodstains found along the Ehime Mbano-Oriagwu road.
The Army urges the public to ignore these falsehoods and reassures citizens of its commitment to safeguarding both individuals and government property in Imo State. The continued destruction of public infrastructure by these dissidents shows that IPOB does not act in the best interests of the people but rather for selfish motives.
The 82 Division encourages residents to share any information that could assist security forces in tackling these criminal elements. Citizens are invited to report suspicious activities by calling the toll-free line 193 and selecting Option 2. The Army assures the people of the South East that they can carry on with their daily lives without fear of intimidation, and it will remain vigilant in its protective duties.
JE UNUAKHALU
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy-Director
82 Division Army Public Relations
October 10, 2024
