Nigerian Army Troops Foil Ambush in Cross River, Neutralise Four Suspected Gunmen

 Soldiers from the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army successfully thwarted an ambush by armed attackers in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State, neutralising four of the assailants in a fierce firefight.

The incident happened on March 12 when troops responded to escalating tensions stemming from a communal dispute in Odonget Community. According to a statement from the Nigerian Army, credible intelligence pointed to rising friction between local groups in the area, prompting the deployment of personnel from units stationed at Ochon and Alesi to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

Upon arrival, the soldiers conducted patrols and maintained a visible presence to de-escalate the situation and restore calm among the conflicting parties. During these operations, they encountered a road obstruction and moved to clear it. That was when the troops came under sudden, coordinated attack from unknown gunmen hidden along the route.

A sharp exchange of fire followed. The soldiers responded decisively, repelling the ambush and inflicting heavy casualties on the attackers. Four gunmen were confirmed neutralised on the spot, while others fled into surrounding bush. No casualties were reported among the military personnel involved.

Army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Yemi Sokoya described the troops' actions as swift and professional, crediting their quick mobilisation and tactical response for averting what could have escalated into wider violence. He emphasised that the operation not only protected civilians caught in the communal rift but also demonstrated the army's commitment to maintaining peace in volatile rural areas.

Cross River State, particularly Obubra and nearby communities, has seen periodic flare-ups linked to land disputes, chieftaincy tussles, and resource conflicts issues that sometimes draw in criminal elements seeking to exploit the chaos. The recent deployment underscores ongoing efforts by security forces to curb such threats before they spiral.

Local residents expressed relief at the outcome. Community leaders in Odonget noted that the army's intervention helped calm nerves after days of anxiety over possible clashes. "We were worried things would get out of hand," one elder said anonymously. "The soldiers came in time and handled it firmly. Now people can breathe easier."

This operation comes amid wide nationwide challenges for the military, which continues to confront banditry, insurgency, and communal violence in various regions. In recent months, troops have recorded successes in repelling attacks and neutralising threats, though the persistence of armed groups remains a concern for security analysts.

No weapons recoveries or further details on the identities of the attackers were immediately disclosed. Investigations are underway to trace the fleeing suspects and uncover any links to larger criminal networks operating in the South-South region.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its resolve to support civil authorities in upholding peace and urged residents to provide timely information on suspicious activities. As patrols continue in the area, officials hope the incident serves as a deterrent to those contemplating similar attacks.