The Nigeria Police Force raided a suspected IPOB/ESN enclave in Nguru, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, on April 23, 2026. The intelligence-led operation followed the confessional statement of Ebube Uchenna Mmaduakolam, a high-ranking IPOB/ESN commander also known as "Ebube Virus." Police recovered two General-Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), 3,115 rounds of GPMG ammunition, one AK-47 assault rifle, one pump-action shotgun, several surveillance drones, and Biafra currency in various denominations. Three suspects were arrested and are in lawful custody, assisting investigators with information on the group's logistics, personnel network, and planned operations.
Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Placid confirmed the details in a statement issued on Sunday. He described the raid as a major breakthrough in the nationwide campaign against violent extremism and organised criminal networks. The hideout was located and searched following leads from Mmaduakolam's confession. Authorities said the recovered arsenal had been intended for use in planned destabilisation activities in the South-east.
Inspector-General of Police praised the Imo State Command operatives for their courage, professionalism, and tactical precision. He stated that the recovery significantly degrades the operational capacity of the IPOB/ESN network in the South-East region. "The recovery of this substantial arsenal significantly degrades the operational capacity of the IPOB/ESN extremist network in the South-East region, and represents a decisive blow against their campaign of terror," the IGP said. The police force reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
The police credit Ebube Uchenna Mmaduakolam's confession for leading them to the Nguru hideout, yet he is not in custody but described as a source of intelligence. If Mmaduakolam is now assisting investigators, questions arise about how a high-ranking suspect is being used to implicate others while not facing public arrest. His status blurs the line between collaborator and detainee, creating uncertainty around the legal process. This dynamic could affect public trust in how suspects within separatist networks are handled.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
