Nigerian Army Captures Notorious IPOB/ESN Commander “Gentle de Yahoo” In Imo State

In a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in the South-East, the Nigerian Army has announced the capture of a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The suspect, identified as Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, popularly known by his alias “Gentle de Yahoo”, was apprehended during a coordinated military operation in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.

According to security sources, the Army, working in collaboration with other sister agencies, stormed a hideout believed to be a base for IPOB/ESN fighters. During the raid, troops not only arrested Gentle de Yahoo but also rescued 11 victims held captive by the group. Several dangerous weapons, including rifles, ammunition, uniforms, and motorcycles used in attacks across the region, were recovered.

An Army officer who spoke on condition of anonymity described the operation as “swift and intelligence-driven,” noting that the commander had been on security watchlists for months due to his role in violent attacks, kidnappings, and extortion across Imo and neighbouring states.

Okorienta’s capture is considered a significant setback for IPOB and ESN, groups the Federal Government has proscribed and labelled as terrorist organizations. Security analysts note that his arrest could disrupt the chain of command in the region, where IPOB/ESN factions have been accused of enforcing illegal sit-at-home orders and carrying out violent assaults on security formations.

Residents of the affected communities have reportedly welcomed the development. Local leaders expressed hope that the capture will ease the wave of kidnappings and violent attacks that have plagued rural areas.

Although details of the operation remain closely guarded, Army officials have assured that the suspect will be thoroughly interrogated and prosecuted in accordance with Nigerian law. The Defence Headquarters is expected to issue a formal statement in the coming days to confirm further details and highlight the significance of the operation within the broader counter-insurgency efforts in the South-East.

For years, Imo State and other South-Eastern states have been flashpoints of violent clashes between separatist groups and Nigerian security forces. The capture of Gentle de Yahoo is therefore being seen as a symbolic victory for the military. However, security experts caution that while the arrest may weaken IPOB/ESN operations temporarily, a sustainable peace will require both strong law-enforcement measures and long-term political engagement to address the grievances fuelling separatist agitation.

As investigations continue, Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether this breakthrough marks the beginning of a decisive turning point in the Army’s effort to restore security in the South-East.