The Nigerian Army has mourned the gruesome murder of two soldiers by Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, Eastern Security Network (ESN) describing it as callous and despicable.
The soldiers, Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Audu M Linus (retired) and Private(Pte), Gloria Matthew, were murdered on Saturday.
They were said to be on transit to Imo state for their traditional wedding when they were allegedly attacked and killed in cold blood.
Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations, in a statement on Tuesday, said “ the Nigerian Army on Saturday, April 30, 2022 received information on the gruesome murder of two soldiers describing it as described as gruesome, barbaric and most despicable manner .”
The army noted that the fact that one of the soldiers, Miss Matthew who hails from Nkwerre Local Government Area of the state, has an ethnic affiliation with the good people of South-East Nigeria did not prevail on the sensibility of the dissidents.
“This dastardly act, one too many, clearly portends the deep-seated hate, desperation and lawlessness with which foot soldiers of IPOB/ESN have been unleashing terror on Ndigbo, whom they claim they are on a mission to protect and emancipate, as well as other innocent Nigerians who are resident or transiting the South East,
“This gruesome murder, in which they did not spare even their own child, clearly depicts callousness, impenitence and is indisputable, a brazen act of terrorism perpetrated by IPOB/ESN.
“Though the dissident groups have continued to live in denial while masquerading as unknown gunmen in their criminal violent campaign in the region, the NA will ensure the perpetrators of this dastardly act unleashed on its personnel do not go unpunished.
“While we deeply condole with the families, relations and close associates of the victims, the NA has commenced investigation to unmask and bring the criminals to book.
“Members of the public are please enjoined to oblige security agencies actionable information that will lead to the arrest of these criminals. ”
