National
Abia Govt Pledges N25m Bounty As Military Vows Reprisal Attack
By Stephen Asaba-ase
The Abia State government has offered a reward of N25m to anybody who has relevant information that could lead to the location and probable arrest of any of the criminals connected to the dastardly killings of five soldiers and subsequent apprehension of the killers in the state.
The military authorities had earlier confirmed the attack and accused the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), however 5 soldiers were killed, the checkpoint and the patrol van were burnt down.
Meanwhile, the state governor sent his condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja over the incident and described it as unfortunate and wished that the departed souls of the gallant soldiers shall rest in perfect peace.
However, security architecture in the State is properly in shape to take care of any informants with all confidentiality needed in their safety, full cooperation in assisting the government to fish out killers in their hidouts and full apprehension.
According to the defence spokesman, Major General Edward Buba, the attack was carried out in Obikabia Checkpoint bordering Aba metropolis in Obingwa LGA. The troop were deployed to enforce peace operation in Udoka area.
He also emphasised that the terrorists came with a three-tinted Toyota Prado SUVs and other cars from built-up areas surrounding the checkpoint, adding that six civilians were murdered in the gun duel that ensued between the terrorists and the troops.
Buba further stated that the Military is still carrying out their investigation concerning the attack, stressing that 5 personnel of the armed forces were sadly killed, adding that the military reprisal attack will be brutal.
“it is imperative that the military will retaliate against the killing of our gallant soldiers. The military would be fierce in its reciprocity”, he added.