Confusion trailed reports on Tuesday after claims surfaced online alleging that troops had captured a notorious Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) commander, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, widely known as Gentle de Yahoo.
The viral reports suggested that operatives of the 34 Artillery Brigade, in collaboration with other security agencies, stormed a hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, and apprehended the wanted militant leader.
However, security analyst Zagazola Makama dismissed the reports as misleading. According to him, no official confirmation had been issued by the Nigerian Army, its Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR), or the 34 Artillery Brigade in Obinze.
“The story of Gentle De Yahoo’s arrest is completely fabricated. Neither the military nor credible media outlets have reported such an incident,” Makama said, cautioning Nigerians to “trust only verified military statements and reliable news platforms when it comes to security matters.”
While refuting the arrest claims, the Nigerian Army detailed a string of recent operational successes across multiple states.
In Imo, troops raided the hideout linked to Gentle De Yahoo but reportedly did not make contact. Items recovered included an English pistol, over 140 rounds of assorted ammunition, military and police uniforms, six mobile phones, and a German flag.
Soldiers also dismantled a workshop used for stripping stolen vehicles and destroyed 10 motorcycles found on-site.
Beyond the Southeast, the army said its operations yielded significant breakthroughs nationwide.
In Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi States, troops rescued at least 12 kidnap victims within 24 hours. Similarly, two terrorists were neutralised in Katsina, while in Benue, security forces killed one armed extremist and arrested 11 suspects across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna for robbery, gunrunning, and violent crimes.
The army further revealed that troops in Plateau recovered 40 rustled cattle and handed them back to their rightful owners. According to the statement, these gains were achieved through “sustained collaboration with sister services and security agencies.”
Speaking to journalists, an army source noted that while confirmation of Gentle De Yahoo’s fate remains uncertain, the ongoing offensive had crippled his network.
“We are still verifying whether he was killed during the operation or if he managed to escape. What we can say is that his group has suffered heavy blows, and the full details will be made public once confirmed,” the source explained.
The Nigerian Army has urged Nigerians to disregard unverified claims and remain patient as it continues to intensify operations against IPOB, ESN, and other criminal elements threatening national security.