Security operatives have arrested a suspected member of the proscribed IPOB/ESN group, identified as Simon Chukwumeoru Akpoke, also known as “Iron,” at his hideout in Ijebu-Igbo, Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The arrest, which took place on March 29, 2026, followed actionable intelligence, according to the Director of Defence Media Operations (DMO), Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, who briefed journalists on Friday. He noted that the suspect had been listed among wanted individuals within the operational jurisdiction of the 82 Division in Enugu.

In a related development, troops arrested two individuals suspected of providing medical support to injured members of the group in Anambra State.

Onoja disclosed that one of the suspects, a nurse, was apprehended at a checkpoint in Ihiala Local Government Area while allegedly en route from a camp in Umunze, Orumba South LGA. Preliminary investigations indicate the suspect had been offering medical treatment to injured fighters at the camp.

The second suspect, identified as Miss Ezinna Anthonia, was arrested in Oraifite, Ekwusigo Local Government Area. According to the military, she admitted to serving as a key medical personnel for the group, treating wounded members after confrontations with security forces.

The DMO further revealed that Anthonia’s alleged affiliation was reinforced after her photograph was shared on social media by a prominent figure linked to the proscribed organisation.

Describing the arrests as a significant disruption to the group’s support network, Onoja said ongoing military operations between March 30 and April 2, 2026, led to the neutralisation of several suspects and the arrest of over 20 individuals, including alleged collaborators, arms couriers, illegal miners, and drug traffickers.

He added that troops also rescued multiple victims of kidnapping during the operations.

Reaffirming the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to national security, Onoja said the military would remain resolute in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.

He also conveyed a message from the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, urging citizens, community leaders, and civil society groups to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence on criminal activities across the country.