In a significant boost to regional security, 80 militants from two separate camps voluntarily surrendered their arms in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
The exercise, took place at the Atimbo Rear Area under the Nigerian Army’s “Operation OKWOK.” The surrender marks a major milestone in the Cross River State Government’s amnesty programme and ongoing efforts by the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army to stabilize the region.
The Surrender and Recovery
The group of former militants emerged from the creeks to join the state-led peace initiative. According to official reports, the surrendering personnel came from two primary factions:
- The Ayibanuagha Group: Led by ThankGod Ebikontei (alias Ayibanuagha), contributing 39 fighters.
- The Akpokolo Marine Forces: Also known as the “Border Boys,” led by John Isaac (alias Akpokolo), contributing 41 fighters.
Security forces recovered a substantial cache of weapons and equipment during the exercise, including:
- Firearms: Three AK-47 rifles, a Mark 4 rifle, a G3 rifle, two pump-action guns, and 12 single-barrel guns.
- Ammunition: 10 AK-47 magazines, 19 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 84 DENGUN cartridges, and a C4 explosive charge.
- Logistics: Three speed boats, four boat house power engines, and various military kits and tools.
Military and Government Response
Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, Commander of the 13 Brigade, described the event as a “major confidence-building milestone.” He attributed the success to the combination of sustained military operations and constructive engagement with the state government.
”This voluntary surrender clearly demonstrates that collaboration remains an effective tool for restoring peace,” Alimikhena stated. He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to supporting the reintegration of repentant youths while maintaining a secure environment.
Reintegration Process
Following the surrender, the former militants were handed over to the Cross River State Government’s Rapid Response Team. They are currently undergoing profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS) at Muka Sam Hotel in Calabar.
The 13 Brigade officially commended Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu for his proactive leadership in the amnesty process. Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, urged the public to continue providing timely information to help consolidate these security gains and prevent a return to criminality.