Akwa Ibom Govt., security operatives destroy “militant group’s” hideout

Sequel to the recent proscription of the Ibom Youth Council by Akwa Ibom State Government, a combined team of security personnel drawn from the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force, on Thursday, demolished the militant group’s headquarters at Ikot Isighe, Mkpat Enin local government.

Three suspects were arrested during the raid.

Acting on intelligence report, the security team raided the area, causing members to scamper for safety.

The Ibom Youth Council emblem

The security team, however, met no resistance from the suspected militants.

Spokesperson of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, ASP Timfon John, while confirming the exercise, disclosed that the group was found to be involved in acquiring weapons, conducting military training, targeting security installations, and trespassing on private properties.

Members of Ibom Youth Council on parade

She alleged that the group was planning to instigate widespread violence at the end of 2024 and beyond.

Part of the statement reads: “Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and share information about persons or groups engaging in activities capable of disturbing public peace.

“Landlords are warned to be cautious before leasing their properties to individuals or organizations.

Ibom Youth Council’s temple demolished

“Any property used in the commission of crimes, especially acts of subversion against the state, will be demolished, and the owners will be treated as accomplices.

“The citizens and residents of Akwa Ibom State are assured of their safety this yuletide season and beyond, as security personnel are working tirelessly to ensure the protection of lives and property.”

The Akwa Ibom State Government, about a fortnight ago, had proscribed the group, proscribed the group explaining it was “done in the interest of the protection of lives and property of citizens of the state.”

One of the group’s structures set ablaze

The proscription order was contained in a statement issues by the commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong and made available to the media on Tuesday.

According to the statement which was sighted by Diaspora Digital Media, “the group and the activities of its members have been adjudged to be “dangerous to the good of the people and government of Akwa Ibom State.”

“All activities of this group including meetings, rallies and other gatherings are banned.”

It stated that the “proscription is made under the powers conferred on the Governor by Section 71 of the Criminal Code Law, 39, Vol. 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State 2022 and will be cited as the Ibom Youth Council (proscription) Order, 2024 and will take effect today.”

The state government directed security agencies to strictly enforce the order.

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