In a sweeping multi-agency campaign that has quietly but effectively suppressed the bloodletting perpetrated by secessionist IPOB/ESN groups across the South-East, Nigerian security forces under Operation UDO KA have recorded significant successes, with the Air Component and Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) emerging as pivotal players in restoring relative calm to the region.
At the core of the renewed onslaught is a reinvigorated synergy among the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Police, and local vigilante groups, who have tightened the noose on IPOB/ESN strongholds in Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo, and Abia States.
“The air component remains a critical force multiplier,” said Squadron Leader Larry Azih, who represented the Air Component Commander, Air Commodore Dooyum Laha while briefing Defence Correspondents . “From January 2025 to date, we’ve flown 149 missions, conducted 160 sorties and logged over 241 hours in the skies. These efforts resulted in the neutralization of 25 terrorists and destruction of over 59 hideouts and structures.”
At the sharp end of the operations is FOB Orsumoghu in Ihiala LGA, Anambra State, once a hotbed for IPOB/ESN activities due to its proximity to the Imo border and forested terrain.
“This was the most active IPOB/ESN area,” said Sector 5 Commander, Col. Adamu Kabir Mohammad. “Since occupying this FOB, we’ve conducted raids, rescued kidnapped victims, recovered firearms and neutralized several combatants.”
Among the notable operations were the rescue of a kidnap victim and recovery of pump-action rifles on 4 March 2024, the neutralization of IPOB gunmen and seizure of an AK-47 on 5 September 2024, and the detonation of multiple IEDs planted along key routes as recently as May 2025.
“The criminals had perfected the art of deploying IEDs,” Col. Mohammad said. “But our troops adapted quickly. We’ve also cleared and refilled roads damaged by explosives to restore civilian access.”
Operation UDO KA’s success hinges on real-time intelligence sharing between the air and ground components. Armed reconnaissance missions conducted by the Air Force have allowed ground forces to move with precision, hitting camps and intercepting militants in transit.
“We conduct regular ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) using UAVs and coordinate with troops on the ground through VHF and GTA radios,” said Sqn Ldr Azih. “While ISR platforms are limited due to nationwide deployment, we are maximizing available assets.”
The air raids have not only targeted militant hideouts but also supply lines and communication centers, further degrading IPOB/ESN’s ability to regroup or launch ambushes.
Crucially, the collaboration is not limited to formal military units. The involvement of the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) has bolstered community confidence and offered actionable intelligence to security operatives.
“We work closely with AVG and community members. It was local intel that led to the arrest of a POS vendor supplying logistics to IPOB/ESN fighters,” Col. Mohammad noted. “We’ve even dug a borehole for the host community as part of civil-military cooperation.”
Meanwhile, in Enugu, 103 Battalion (R) under Major Mohammed Abdulrahman oversees seven LGAs, operating six response areas. The terrain has remained unpredictable, with security threats ranging from IPOB/ESN infiltration to kidnappings and land disputes.
“Though the area is relatively calm, we remain on high alert,” said Maj. Abdulrahman. “Strategic deployment, community surveillance, and coordination with other sectors ensure the threat is contained.”
Despite these strides, operational challenges persist. The most pressing include inadequate manpower, limited support weapons, poor communication equipment, and frequent IED attacks.
“We’re forced to rely on mobile phones in areas with weak signals due to a lack of HF radios,” lamented Col. Mohammad. “Our foot patrols also lack sufficient protective gear and heavy weapons, which is a concern.”
Nevertheless, commanders remain resolute. Sqn Ldr Azih said the air component will continue armed reconnaissance, close air support, and interdiction missions, while Sector 5 and other ground units plan more joint patrols, raids, and community outreach.
“This collaboration works because every agency respects the strength and limitations of the other,” Azih emphasized. “Together, we are reclaiming the South-East from the grip of terror.”
From reclaimed roads in Orsumoghu to surveillance flights over Anambra’s dense forests, the multi-pronged interagency effort is proving that peace can return to a region once wracked by fear, one mission, one village, and one sortie at a time.