The 13th Brigade Nigerian Army has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight for peace and stability as two militant groups voluntarily laid down their arms during an Amnesty Programme in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.
A statement by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Major Yemj Sokoya on Friday, January 16, 2026 disclosed this development, stating that a large number of militants from two camps, willingly emerged from the creeks and submitted themselves for Amnesty at Atimbo Rear Area, Operation OKWOK
The first camp with 39 fighter is led by ThankGod Ebikontei, also known as Ayibanuagha, while the second camp is headed by John Isaac, also known as Akpokolo.
During the exercise, several weapons were laid down including three AK-47 rifles, two pump action guns, one Mark 4 rifle, one G3 rifle, twelve single-barrel guns, ten AK-47 magazines, three speed boats, four outboard horsepower engines, one C4 charge explosive, nineteen (19) rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, eighty-four (84) DENGUN cartridges, as well as other assorted military kits, tools, locally fabricated weapons, and accessories.
Speaking, the Commander 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Paul Alimikhena described the development as a major confidence building milestone, adding that it is a demonstration of sustained military operations and will continue if necessary collaboration are in place.
“This voluntary surrender and embrace of amnesty by these former militants clearly demonstrate that sustained military operations, combined with constructive engagement and strong collaboration with the Cross River State Government and other security agencies, remain effective tools for 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.”
At the completion of the exercise, the militants were formally handed over to the Rapid Response Team from the Cross River State Government for profiling by the Department of State Service (DSS) at the Muka Sam Hotel, Calabar.
Major Sokoya informed also that the State Governor, Bassey Oyu has assured of his commitment to building peace and security in the state while commending the proactiveness to execute an Amnesty Programme.
“The proactive engagement, coordination, and support provided by the state government were instrumental to the successful execution of this amnesty programme. This development further underscores the importance of effective civil-military collaboration in addressing security challenges and promoting sustainable peace.
Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army reiterates its commitment to working closely with the Cross River State Government, other security agencies, and relevant stakeholders to consolidate these gains and prevent a relapse into criminality.
The Brigade assures law-abiding citizens of its continued resolve to maintain peace, security, and stability across its Area of Responsibility.”
Responding, the Headquarters 13th Brigade Nigerian Army has reiterated it’s commitment to working closely with the Government and relevant stakeholders o combat criminality admonishing citizens to be law-abiding and suing for the support of Security agencies with intervention information to ensure a better Cross River State.