Minister of State for Defence Dr. Muhammed Bello Matawalle has condemned the killing of five soldiers at Obikabia Junction in Obingwa local government area of Abia State, allegedly by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

In a statement released by the ministry’s director of information, Henshaw Ogubike, Matawalle described the attack as barbaric, abominable, and totally reprehensible. He assured that those responsible would face justice.

 “The brutal assassination of the soldiers in Aba was without any provocation while on a lawful duty, protecting innocent citizens against the threat of non-state actors,” Matawalle stated. He extended condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers and the Nigerian military, encouraging troops to remain undeterred.

Matawalle reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the military in defeating IPOB, ESN, and other criminal groups to ensure national security. He emphasized the critical role of local communities in combating terrorism, urging citizens to provide information to aid military operations and to maintain their trust in Nigeria.