There was jubilation across parts of the South East on Tuesday after the Nigerian Army announced the capture of a feared commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The man, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta – known to locals as Gentle de Yahoo – was tracked down in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade and allied security forces.
The raid uncovered an arsenal: an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of NATO ammunition, six phones, military and police uniforms, and even a German flag. Troops also destroyed a workshop used for dismantling stolen vehicles and burnt 10 motorbikes.
Okorienta, according to intelligence, was behind enforcement squads that terrorised residents whenever they defied the dreaded “sit-at-home” orders. He was also linked to multiple kidnappings and killings, including the gruesome beheading of a military couple who returned home to wed in Imo.
The news has sparked relief and celebration. Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in a strongly worded statement signed by Deputy President General Okechukwu Isiguzoro and National Spokesman Chinemeze Ohia, commended the Federal Government, the military high command and security agencies for their “decisive action to end years of suffering in the South East.”
They described Gentle de Yahoo as a self-styled “Biafran Army leader” whose faction had devastated communities through violence, displacement and economic strangulation.
“The era of impunity is over. The days of reckoning are here. Lay down your arms now, because there is no hiding place,” Ohanaeze warned.
APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe, writing on Facebook, went further, claiming the captured militant was responsible for the deaths of more than 1,000 Igbos between 2015 and 2025. “The South East has been liberated,” he declared.
Ordinary residents also voiced cautious optimism. “Every Monday we are locked indoors because of fear. These commanders thrive on intimidation. Knowing one of them has been taken out is good news,” one stakeholder told DAILY POST in confidence.
On X (formerly Twitter), users expressed joy:
– @Kamzy: “Glory be to God, Gentle de Yahoo has been arrested. This is a big breakthrough to restoring peace.”
– @MayorOfOru: “This is the end of insecurity in the South East. Kudos to our security personnel.”
– @FabulosFaga: “No cartel was deadlier than this man’s. If you fell into their hands, you would see death while still alive.”
For now, communities across Imo and neighbouring states are breathing a little easier, hoping the capture marks the beginning of lasting peace in the South East.
