A fierce gun battle erupted on Monday morning, November 25, between personnel of the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade, Ohafia, and unidentified gunmen in Mbata, Umuchima village, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, Abia State.
Reports indicate that over 15 Hilux vehicles and armoured personnel carriers arrived at the village around 6 a.m., targeting suspected gunmen reportedly camped near a river bordering Abia and the Mbaise axis of Imo State.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that soldiers had taken control of key junctions leading in and out of the area. “The gunfire started early in the morning and hasn’t stopped,” a resident shared, adding that many villagers fled their homes for safety.
The intense exchange of gunfire continues in nearby bushes, with no casualty figures reported yet. As of press time, there have been no official statements from the Nigerian Army or the Abia State Government.
The clash comes days after Abia State Governor Alex Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating insecurity. Following a meeting with top security officials last week, Otti vowed to restore peace across the state.
This incident underscores the rising tensions in the region and the challenges authorities face in maintaining order. Residents are anxiously awaiting further updates on the situation as the standoff persists.
