No fewer than 80 militants have voluntarily surrendered themselves and their weapons under the Cross River State Government’s amnesty programme in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, marking what the Nigerian Army has described as a major boost to peace and security efforts in the state.
The surrender took place in the early hours of Friday, January 16, 2026, at Atimbo Rear Area, Operation OKWOK, within Akpabuyo Local Government Area, following sustained security operations and engagements by Headquarters 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.
The militants emerged from the creeks in two separate groups. The first camp, led by ThankGod Ebikontei, also known as Ayibanuagha, presented 39 fighters for the amnesty programme. The second group, headed by John Isaac, popularly known as Akpokolo, also referred to as the Akpokolo Marine Forces or Border Boys, surrendered 41 fighters.
During the exercise, the former militants voluntarily handed over a cache of arms, ammunition, and equipment. Items surrendered included three AK-47 rifles, two pump-action guns, one Mark 4 rifle, one G3 rifle, 12 single-barrel guns, 10 AK-47 magazines, three speed boats, four boat house power engines, one C4 charge explosive, 19 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 84 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 significant confidence-building milestone in the ongoing security efforts in the state.
“This voluntary surrender and embrace of amnesty by these former militants clearly demonstrates 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,” Alimikhena said.
He added that the Brigade would continue to support lawful initiatives aimed at reintegrating repentant youths.
“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 stated.
Following the completion of the amnesty process, the surrendered militants were formally handed over to the Rapid Response Team of the Cross River State Government. They are currently undergoing profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS) at Muka Sam Hotel, Ikot Ansa, Calabar.
Headquarters 13 Brigade commended the Cross River State Government, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, for its commitment to peace and security, noting that the state’s proactive engagement and coordination were critical to the success of the amnesty programme.
The Army further reaffirmed its resolve to work closely with the state government, other security agencies, and relevant stakeholders to consolidate the gains achieved and prevent a return to criminality. Law-abiding residents were also urged to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to help ensure a safe and secure Cross River State.
The development highlights the increasing importance of civil-military collaboration in addressing security challenges and promoting sustainable peace in the region.
