Gun booms, several persons missing as militants, Pro-Biafra separatists clash in Akwa-Ibom

By Sola Omoniyi, Lagos

Tension mounts in Bakassi Peninsula in Akwa-Ibom state as several fighters had been feared missing from the deadly gun battle between suspected Niger Delta militants and pro-Biafran separatists yesterday.

Congress reported earlier that about five fighters were injured following the confrontation between the Niger Delta militants and pro-Biafran separatists.

According to sources, the residents in the area scampered for safety as gunshots rent the air.

The Black Marine Base reportedly suffered casualties and the Base was overrun by the invaders, leading to the seizure of boats and weapons from the Base.

Sources said the Niger Delta militants stormed the second barracks of the Black Marine at Uyenghe, Akwa Ibom State and dislodged them following a disagreement between the two camps.

It was gathered the invasion was reportedly led by a former third commander of the Black Marine from Bayelsa leading to the death and missing of some fighters.

It was learned that the commander who led the militants for the invasion was suspended in the year 2022 for honouring the invitation of Tompolo.

“The former commander has been trying to set up an Ijaw squad in Bakassi, two of their camps were invaded by the Black Marine last year with heavy gunfire and they were told to go back to Bayelsa, -A Black Marine source narrated.

“Today he led his kinsmen to invade the barracks and steal boats and other materials because he knows where they are, luckily about three of our gallant boys were seated on top of the tree smoking, observed them and opened fire on them and injured them.

“Uyenghe is the highest barracks of the Black Marine where assorted kinds of materials are kept. This is not the first time they’re daring our men.”, the source said.