Troops of the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army have successfully repelled a deadly ambush by suspected armed criminals in Odonget Community, Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State, killing four attackers in the process.
The incident, which occurred on March 12, 2026, began when soldiers responded to a distress call about rising communal tensions in the area. What started as a peacekeeping mission quickly turned into a life-threatening encounter when the troops were ambushed on their way back to base.
How the Attack Unfolded
According to Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director Army Public Relations at Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, troops stationed at Ochon and Alesi had received credible intelligence about a brewing communal dispute threatening to spiral out of control in Odonget Community.
“Acting swiftly to prevent a breakdown of law and order, the troops mobilised to the area where they conducted patrols and a show of force, which helped to calm the situation and restore normalcy between the concerned parties,” Major Sokoya stated in an official release.
The soldiers successfully de-escalated the communal tension and were returning to their respective locations when they discovered their route had been deliberately blocked by unidentified persons.
As the troops worked to clear the obstruction, unknown gunmen launched a coordinated ambush, triggering a fierce gun battle between the soldiers and the attackers.
Military Response and Casualties
Following a distress call from the troops under attack, reinforcements from 245 Battalion were immediately deployed with armoured and tactical support vehicles to counter the assault.
The swift military response proved decisive, as troops successfully repelled the ambush and neutralized four of the armed attackers. However, several others managed to escape into nearby communities.
One soldier sustained injuries during the exchange of fire and was promptly evacuated to Jennifer Hospital in Ochon, Obubra LGA, where he is currently receiving medical treatment and recovering.
Security Measures Put in Place
In response to the attack, military authorities have implemented stringent security measures across the affected area:
Cordon and Search Operations: Troops have launched comprehensive operations in communities suspected of harbouring the fleeing criminals to track them down and prevent further security breaches.
Curfew Imposed: A curfew has been declared in the affected area to prevent further breakdown of law and order and deny miscreants the freedom to operate under cover of darkness.
These measures are designed to restore complete peace and security while ensuring the perpetrators face justice.
Military Leadership Speaks
The Commander of 13 Brigade, Brigadier General Patrick Alimikhena, commended the bravery and professionalism displayed by the troops during the confrontation.
He reassured residents of Cross River State of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and maintaining peace within its area of responsibility, regardless of the threats posed by criminal elements.
Call for Public Cooperation
Military authorities are urging members of the public to remain calm and cooperate fully with security agencies during this critical period.
Citizens with credible information that could assist ongoing operations aimed at apprehending the perpetrators are encouraged to come forward and share such intelligence with security forces.
The military has promised to provide further updates as the situation develops and investigations progress.
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This incident underscores the security challenges facing communities across Nigeria and the risks military personnel face daily while protecting citizens. The Nigerian Army’s quick response prevented what could have been a more devastating attack and demonstrates the importance of intelligence gathering and rapid deployment in counter-insurgency operations.
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