80 Militants Surrender Arms in C’River a Amnesty Breakthrough
80 Militants Surrender Arms in C’River a
Amnesty Breakthrough
The Nigerian Army has recorded a significant security milestone in Cross River State after 80 militants voluntarily surrendered their arms.
The breakthrough occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Atimbo Rear Area in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
This mass surrender is part of the state government’s ongoing amnesty programme aimed at restoring peace to the region.
The repentant militants emerged from two major camps that had been operating within the state’s creeks. The first group, consisting of 39 fighters, was led by ThankGod Ebikontei (also known as Ayibanuagha), while the second group of 41 fighters was led by John Isaac, popularly known as Akpokolo.
These groups, including the “Akpokolo Marine Forces” or “Border Boys,” had previously been linked to various security challenges along the waterways.
During the exercise, the former militants handed over a substantial cache of weapons and military hardware. The recovered items included AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, Mark 4 and G3 rifles, and several single-barrel guns. Additionally, the authorities recovered explosives, numerous magazines, ammunition, speed boats, boat house engines, and various pieces of military gear and locally fabricated weapons.
Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, Commander of the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, described the event as a major confidence-building milestone for the state.
He emphasized that the surrender is a testament to the effectiveness of sustained military operations combined with constructive engagement. He noted that the collaboration between the Nigerian Army, the Cross River State Government, and other security agencies was instrumental in achieving this outcome.
Moving forward, the military has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a secure environment and supporting initiatives to reintegrate repentant youths into society. The headquarters of the 13 Brigade stated it would continue to work toward lasting stability in the area, ensuring that the peace gained through this amnesty breakthrough is preserved for the benefit of the local communities.
