The Nigerian military has lamented the death of five soldiers killed by gunmen on Thursday in Aba the Abia State capital, pointing out that it cannot win the war without the support of the people.
The soldiers were killed during the sit-at-home ordered by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, to commemorate Biafra fallen heroes and heroines who died in the Nigerian, Biafra civil war.
The Nigeria military accused IPOB for the killing of the soldiers who were deployed to maintain peace at Obikabia Junction checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba on Friday said investigation was ongoing regarding the attack, adding that each soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss.
Mr. Buba who disclosed that six civilians were also killed in the crossfire, said “The troops deployed to enforce peace in the area and protect the citizens were massed and attacked by the terrorists.
“The terrorists in 3 tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and others from built up areas surrounding the checkpoint, sprang a surprise attack on the checkpoint.
“Overall, it must be reiterated that the lifeline of the terrorist is the people and this situation is no exemption.Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible.
“The IPOB capitalized on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops. The situation leaves more to be desired. Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops.
“The military would be fierce in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat,” the statement said.
