Cross River State has recorded a significant boost in its peace and security efforts following the voluntary surrender of dozens of militants in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, in line with the state government’s amnesty programme.
Headquarters 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army disclosed this development in a press statement issued by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Major Yemi Sokoya. According to the statement, the surrender took place in the early hours of Friday, 16 January 2026, at Atimbo Rear Area, Operation OKWOK, under Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
The militants, who willingly emerged from the creeks to embrace amnesty, came from two separate camps. The first group, led by ThankGod Ebikontei, also known as Ayibanuagha, presented thirty-nine (39) fighters, while the second group, headed by John Isaac, popularly known as Akpokolo, presented forty-one (41) fighters. The latter group is widely known as the Akpokolo Marine Forces or Border Boys.
During the exercise, the former militants voluntarily surrendered a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and other items. These included three AK-47 rifles, two pump action guns, one Mark 4 rifle, one G3 rifle, twelve single-barrel guns, ten AK-47 magazines, three speedboats, four boat house power engines, one C4 charge explosive, nineteen rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, eighty-four DENGUN cartridges, as well as assorted military kits, tools, locally fabricated weapons, and accessories.
Speaking on the development, the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P. O. Alimikhena, described the exercise as a major confidence-building milestone. He noted that the voluntary surrender clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of sustained military operations, constructive engagement, and strong collaboration with the Cross River State Government and other security agencies.
“This development shows that our combined approach remains effective in restoring peace. Headquarters 13 Brigade will continue to provide a secure environment while supporting all lawful initiatives aimed at reintegrating repentant youths and ensuring lasting stability across our Area of Responsibility,” he said.
Following the completion of the amnesty process, the ex-militants were formally handed over to the Rapid Response Team of the Cross River State Government and are currently undergoing profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS) at Muka Sam Hotel, Ikot Ansa, Calabar.
The Nigerian Army commended the Cross River State Government, under the leadership of Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu, for its unwavering commitment to peace, security, and stability. The Army noted that the state government’s proactive engagement, coordination, and support were instrumental to the successful execution of the amnesty programme.
Headquarters 13 Brigade reiterated its commitment to working closely with the state government, other security agencies, and relevant stakeholders to consolidate the gains achieved and prevent any relapse into criminality. The Brigade also assured law-abiding citizens of its continued resolve to maintain peace and security across its Area of Responsibility.
Members of the public were encouraged to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to ensure a safe and secure Cross River State.