The Defence Headquarters on Saturday, November 2, announced the arrest of notorious terrorist leader Abubakar Bawa Ibrahim, also known as Habu Dogo, during ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in Northwest Nigeria. Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed that Habu Dogo, wanted in both Nigeria and Niger for cross-border terrorism, was apprehended in Rumji Village, Illela LGA of Sokoto State.
Known for orchestrating numerous attacks and kidnappings, particularly in Sokoto State, his capture is a significant victory for security forces.
Additional anti-terror operations across the country saw troops neutralizing 187 terrorists and arresting 311 suspects, including IPOB/ESN commanders and operatives in Southeast Nigeria. High-profile arrests included Dr. Nnamdi Chukwudoze and Chigozie Ezetoha, alias Chapet, in Anambra State, and others in Abia and Imo States.
In the Niger Delta, security forces thwarted oil theft attempts worth approximately N1.25 billion by dismantling 98 illegal refining sites and seizing over a million liters of stolen crude oil. In North East operations, troops neutralized 103 terrorists, arrested 64 suspects, and rescued 15 hostages, recovering a large cache of arms and ammunition.
In North Central Nigeria, forces neutralized 14 violent extremists, arrested 25 suspects, and rescued 26 hostages, while also intercepting multiple kidnapping attempts. These coordinated efforts mark a week of strategic achievements for the Nigerian Armed Forces as they intensify operations to secure the region and combat insurgency.