Nigeria Military Checkpoint in Abia Targeted by Gunmen, Two Soldiers Die

Gunmen attacked a military checkpoint in Umuahia, Abia State, on November 13, 2024, killing two soldiers. The military blamed the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The attack marks the second major assault on military personnel in Abia this year.
On November 13, 2024, unidentified gunmen attacked a military checkpoint on the Umuahia–Owerri Road in Umuahia South Local Government Area, Abia State, killing two soldiers. The assault, carried out in the early hours of the morning, targeted troops of the Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, deployed to maintain peace and security in the region.

Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu confirmed the attack, attributing it to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). According to the military, the troops managed to repel the attackers, who were forced to retreat after sustaining gunshot wounds. The attackers abandoned two vehicles, a Lexus and a Sienna, which were used in the operation.

In a statement, the Joint Task Force appealed to the people of Abia State to provide any relevant information that could assist in capturing the attackers and preventing further violence in the region. The military continues to urge locals to call a designated hotline with any leads.

This is the second major attack on a military checkpoint in Abia this year, following an attack in May 2024 in which five soldiers were killed in Aba. In that incident, the assailants believed to be affiliated with IPOB and ESN, launched a surprise assault, resulting in the deaths of several civilians as well.

As the region faces ongoing security challenges, the Joint Task Force has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining peace in southeastern Nigeria, despite the rising threat from insurgent groups.