Anxiety as Nigerian Army engages gunmen in fierce battle in Abia

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade, based in Ohafia, Abia State, are currently engaged in a gunfight with armed men in Mbata, Umuchima village, located in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of the state.

The clash reportedly began early Tuesday morning, with military reinforcements, including more than 15 Hilux vehicles and armored personnel carriers, arriving around 6 a.m. The gunmen are believed to be camped near a river bordering Abia and the Mbaise area of Imo State.

The soldiers have secured key junctions leading to and from the village while engaging the gunmen in nearby bushes. As of the time of this report, gunfire continues, with no official statement yet issued by the Nigerian Army or the Abia State Government.

This incident comes on the heels of last Wednesday’s attack in Ohafia Local Government Area, where gunmen ambushed a police unit, killing Assistant Superintendent of Police Etet Ubokulo. Two other officers, ASP Etim Obungha and Corporal Chukwuma, narrowly escaped.

The current operation underscores rising security concerns in the region, with residents urging swift action to restore peace.