The Nigerian Army has reopened the Umuokpara-Onuimo road to the public after several days of restriction following an attack on three of its personnel last week by unidentified gunmen.
Addressing the press after a site visit with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82nd Division, Enugu, Major General H.T. Dada, and other senior military officers, the Special Adviser to the Abia State Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander (RTD) MacDonald Ubah, announced that the team had also decided to relocate the military checkpoint closer to the Onuimo River for improved visibility.
Navy Commander Ubah explained that the original checkpoint location, within a built-up area, had hindered the military’s freedom of movement and ability to repel the attack. He added that the traditional ruler of Ezeleke Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Ibeakanma, along with other local leaders, had been cooperative in facilitating the relocation, acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the road closure.
“The communities in the area have volunteered to clear the new checkpoint site and provide vital information, as security is everyone’s responsibility,” Ubah stated.
He also used the opportunity to call on the public to continue supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in their efforts to tackle rising insecurity.
The Commanding Officer of the 145th Battalion, Umuahia, Major Martin Domkat, and other senior military officials were part of the GOC’s entourage.
