The Nigerian military has confirmed the arrest of a wanted suspected member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Simon Chukwumeoru Akpoke, also known by the alias “Iron,” during an intelligence-led operation in Ogun State.
According to official military briefings by the Defence Headquarters, the suspect was arrested at his hideout in Ijebu-Igbo, located in Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State, following credible intelligence on his whereabouts.
The operation was carried out by troops under joint security arrangements as part of ongoing nationwide counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations targeting individuals linked to violent extremist groups. Military authorities stated that Akpoke had been on the wanted list of the Nigerian Army’s 82 Division in Enugu prior to his arrest.
Security officials said the arrest took place on March 29, 2026, after sustained surveillance and intelligence tracking. He was taken into custody without resistance and is currently undergoing interrogation as part of ongoing investigations.
Military sources further explained that the suspect is believed to have connections with activities attributed to IPOB/ESN elements operating in parts of the South-East, and that his arrest is part of wider operations aimed at dismantling alleged logistical and operational networks linked to the group.
In addition to the arrest of Akpoke, Defence Headquarters also reported wider operations across different theatres of military activity, during which multiple suspects linked to various criminal activities were apprehended, while others were neutralised in separate engagements.
The military has in recent months intensified operations against armed groups, including IPOB/ESN-linked elements, kidnappers, and other criminal networks, with coordinated raids, intelligence gathering, and arrests carried out across several states.
Authorities reiterated that individuals arrested in such operations are subjected to investigation and due legal processes, and urged the public to support security agencies with credible information to aid ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
As of the latest update, no additional details have been released regarding charges or court proceedings involving the suspect, while investigations continue under military and security agency supervision.
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