Jubilation as Nigerian Army Captures ESN Commander Gentle De Yahoo
Jubilation as Nigerian Army Captures ESN Commander Gentle De Yahoo
The Nigerian Army has captured a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, popularly known as Gentle De Yahoo. The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to restore peace in the Southeast region of Nigeria.According to military sources, Okorienta was apprehended at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade in a joint operation with other security agencies.
The operation led to the recovery of multiple exhibits and weapons. Items seized include:
- One English pistol
- 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition
- A cartridge
- Six mobile phones
- Military and police uniforms
- A German flag
Troops also uncovered a workshop used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale and destroyed 10 motorcycles found at the scene.
Military intelligence reports suggest that Gentle De Yahoo was behind the formation of “enforcement squads” responsible for violent attacks in Anambra and Imo whenever residents defied sit-at-home orders.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, led by Jackson Omenazu, praised the Federal Government and security agencies for the decisive action. In a statement signed by Deputy President General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and National Spokesman Chief Chinemeze Ohia, the group described Gentle De Yahoo as the “self-proclaimed leader of the AUTO PILOT MILITIA and the nonexistent Biafran Army.”
The group urged other fighters to lay down their arms, emphasizing that “the era of impunity is over.” It condemned the violence inflicted upon the Southeast for the past four years and called for the immediate cessation of terrorist activities.
“The Igbo people, united and resolute, are rising to reclaim their land and dignity. The days of reckoning and the judgment of the law have arrived,” the statement read.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo commended the efforts of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the gallant soldiers of the 34 Brigade in Obinze, Imo State.According to the group, the arrest is a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of citizens in the Southeast.
The arrest of Gentle De Yahoo has sparked jubilation across Imo State and the Southeast. Many see it as a step towards restoring peace and reviving communities devastated by years of violence.
APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe wrote on Facebook that the Southeast has been “liberated,” claiming Gentle De Yahoo killed more than a thousand Igbo between 2015 and 2025.
On X (formerly Twitter), users expressed relief and hope:
- @Kitikpa: “This is Gentle the Yahoo, a commissioned political assassin used under the guise of freedom fighting.”
- @Suzzy4U: “Please confirm Gentle De Yahoo has been arrested, I’m reserving my celebration until confirmation.”
- @Kamzy: “Glory be to God! Gentle De Yahoo has been arrested. This is a breakthrough for peace in Imo State.”
- @Mayor of Oru nation: “The capture of Gentle De Yahoo alive signals the end of insecurity in the Southeast.”
- @FabulosFaga: “No cartel group in the Southeast was deadlier than the one managed by Gentle the Yahoo.”
Stakeholders believe the arrest of Gentle De Yahoo could mark the beginning of peace and stability in the region. Many residents expressed hope that the days of forced sit-at-home orders and violence may soon end.Ohanaeze Ndigbo has called on all Igbo sons and daughters to embrace peace, dialogue, and reconciliation as the region rebuilds from the damage caused by years of insurgency.
With the Federal Government’s commitment and the support of local communities, there is renewed optimism for the Southeast’s future.
