Army Repels Ambush in Cross River, Kills Four Armed Attackers

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade have successfully repelled an ambush by suspected armed criminals in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State, neutralizing four of the attackers during a gun battle.

The incident occurred on March 12, 2026, as soldiers were returning from a mission to address rising tensions linked to a communal dispute in Odonget community.

According to a statement issued by Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for Headquarters 13 Brigade, troops stationed in Ochon and Alesi received credible intelligence about the brewing crisis and swiftly mobilised to the area to prevent an escalation of violence.

The soldiers conducted patrols and a show of force in the community, which helped calm the situation and restore normalcy between the feuding parties.

However, while returning to their base after stabilising the area, the troops encountered an obstruction on their route allegedly created by unidentified individuals. As they attempted to clear the blockage, they came under a coordinated attack by gunmen.

“During efforts to clear the obstruction, the soldiers came under a coordinated ambush by unknown gunmen, leading to a fierce exchange of fire,” the statement read.

Following the ambush, troops on the ground sent a contact report prompting the immediate deployment of reinforcements from the 245 Battalion. The reinforcements arrived with armoured vehicles and tactical support equipment, enabling the soldiers to overpower the attackers after an intense gunfight.

The army confirmed that four of the armed attackers were killed during the engagement, while several others fled the scene.

One soldier sustained injuries during the confrontation and was evacuated to Jennifer Hospital in Ochon, Obubra Local Government Area, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.

In response to the attack, troops have commenced cordon and search operations in suspected communities linked to the assailants to track down fleeing criminals and prevent further security breaches. Security forces have also imposed a curfew in the affected area to restrict movement and forestall a breakdown of law and order.

The Commander of the 13 Brigade, Brigadier General Patrick Alimikhena, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism during the encounter. He reassured residents of Cross River State that the Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting lives and maintaining peace within its area of responsibility.

The army urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing operations aimed at apprehending the attackers. Authorities stated that further updates would be communicated as investigations and security operations continue in the area.