Odita Sunday 
Army Clears IPOB/ESN Stronghold in Imo, Recovers Suspected Remains of Slain Wedding-Bound Soldiers
By Odita Sunday
The Nigerian Army has intensified its campaign against armed separatist networks in the South-East, dismantling a major stronghold of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network, in Imo State.
The operation, executed by troops of the 82 Division in conjunction with other security agencies, took place on April 24, 2026, along the Ubaha–Orsu corridor in Orsu Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence on the location of the group’s hideout.
Beyond the tactical objective of neutralising the camp, the mission carried a deeply emotional dimension — the search for the remains of two Nigerian Army personnel, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were abducted and murdered in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.
As troops advanced towards the location, they encountered heavy resistance from armed elements believed to be members of the criminal group. The troops, however, held their ground, repelling multiple ambush attempts and forcing the attackers to retreat.
The successful clearance of the camp marked a significant operational gain, further weakening the infrastructure of the group within the region.
During a meticulous search of the site, troops uncovered shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain personnel — a discovery that underscores the brutal nature of the violence perpetrated by the group.
The suspected remains have been secured and will undergo forensic procedures, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities.
Military authorities said efforts are ongoing to engage with the families of the fallen personnel to ensure proper identification and facilitate dignified burial rites.
The Nigerian Army described the operation as a demonstration of its unwavering commitment to both justice and operational effectiveness.
It also highlighted the broader implications of the discovery, noting that it exposes the extent of atrocities committed by the group and reinforces the need for sustained security operations in the region.
The Army assured the public that operations will continue until all criminal elements are neutralised and lasting peace restored, while urging citizens to support security agencies with credible intelligence.
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