In a major boost for peace efforts, the Nigerian Army has confirmed the voluntary surrender of 80 militants in Cross River State under the state government’s amnesty programme.
The militants gave themselves up in the early hours of Friday at Atimbo Rear Area in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, following Operation OKWOK, according to the Army’s 13 Brigade.
Army spokesperson, Major Yemi Sokoya, said the group emerged from two camps — one led by ThankGod Ebikontei (aka Ayibanuagha) with 39 fighters, and the other by John Isaac (aka Akpokolo) with 41 fighters.
Along with the surrender, the militants also handed over a cache of weapons, including rifles, pump-action guns, single-barrel weapons, magazines, ammunition, speedboats, boat engines, and other military-related items.
The Commander of 13 Brigade, Brigadier-General Paul Alimikhena, described the development as a confidence-building milestone, crediting sustained military operations and strong collaboration with the Cross River State Government and other security agencies.
He assured residents that the Army would continue to maintain security while supporting reintegration efforts for repentant youths to ensure lasting peace.
The surrendered militants have since been handed over to the state’s Rapid Response Team and are currently undergoing profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Commending Governor Bassey Otu for his commitment to peace, the Army also urged residents to keep supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
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