The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced a significant breakthrough in its counter-insurgency efforts, confirming the capture of Abubakar Bawa Ibrahim, alias Habu Dogo, a high-profile terrorist leader wanted in both Nigeria and Niger Republic. The capture of Habu Dogo, known for his involvement in kidnappings and killings across Sokoto State, took place in Rumji Village within Illela Local Government Area, Sokoto, as disclosed by Major-General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.
“Habu Dogo has been on the security agencies’ watch list due to his cross-border activities,” Major-General Buba stated. He further reported that recent military operations led to the detention of seven commanders and operatives linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its paramilitary wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), across various locations in southeastern Nigeria. Among those arrested were Dr. Nnamdi Chukwudoze and Chigozie Ezetoha, apprehended in Ihiala, Anambra State, along with other individuals taken into custody in Abia State.
Nationwide, the DHQ detailed an extensive record of successes over recent weeks, including the neutralization of 187 terrorists and the arrest of 311 criminal suspects, alongside the rescue of 147 kidnapped individuals. In the North-West region, troops under Operation Hadarin Daji reported neutralizing 51 terrorists, apprehending 55 suspects, and freeing 81 hostages. The operation also saw the seizure of an arsenal of weaponry: 26 AK-47 rifles, six fabricated rifles, five pump-action shotguns, and a substantial quantity of ammunition.
The DHQ also provided an account of several targeted encounters between October 21 and 28. On October 21, troops engaged terrorist factions in Maradun and Isa LGAs of Zamfara and Sokoto, respectively, leading to the neutralization of 13 terrorists and the recovery of weapons including nine AK-47 rifles and 297 rounds of NATO-standard ammunition. Another successful patrol on October 23 in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna, resulted in the liberation of four kidnapped hostages.
These operations extended to Kaduna, Kebbi, and Katsina States, where further confrontations with armed groups led to the elimination of 17 terrorists, the arrest of 11 suspects, and the rescue of an additional hostage. Recovered equipment included two AK-47 rifles, six fabricated rifles, three Dane guns, and significant quantities of ammunition.
The recent spate of military operations has bolstered efforts to stem terrorist activities across Nigeria’s northern and southeastern regions, with the DHQ reiterating its commitment to maintaining security and safeguarding citizens nationwide.
