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Security forces clear strategic route previously blocked by militants.
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Operation conducted under Operation UDO KA and Operation EASTERN SANITY.
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Militants linked to Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network.
Nigerian troops have reopened a major road in Imo State that had been shut for more than three years due to insurgent activities in the South-East.
The road was reopened following a joint security operation carried out under Operation UDO KA and the broader Operation EASTERN SANITY.
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The multi-agency mission, led by the 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, cleared the Lilu–Eketutu Road located within the Orsu–Eketutu Mother Valley on March 6, 2026.
The route had remained inaccessible for years due to attacks and threats posed by militants linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
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Security forces involved in the operation included the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
During the operation, Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialists detected and neutralised several Improvised Explosive Devices planted along the road to prevent the movement of commuters and security personnel.
Troops later advanced into the Orsu–Ihiteukwa area on March 11, where they discovered an Improvised Explosive Device manufacturing facility allegedly operated by IPOB/ESN militants.
Items recovered from the site included Biafran insignia, 7.62mm ammunition, pistol magazines, double-barrel guns, CCTV surveillance equipment and electrical wiring used for explosive fabrication.
In a statement, Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, a Lieutenant Colonel of the Nigerian Army, said the military remained committed to dismantling criminal enclaves threatening peace in the region.
He added that the operation was aimed at restoring normalcy and enabling displaced residents to safely return to their communities, while urging members of the public to continue providing intelligence to security agencies.