SAA event in Nigeria on Thu 29th January 2026

TROOPS OF 82 DIVISION JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH EAST OPERATION UDO KA RESCUE KIDNAPPED CLERGYMAN

Troops of 82 Division Nigerian Army/Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA in conjunction with other security agencies, have successfully rescued a kidnapped clergyman, Reverend Johnson Anayo Onugwu, following a swift and intelligence-driven operation in Enugu State.

The clergyman was abducted from his residence at Ezimo community, Udenu LGA, Enugu State, at about 1:00am on 29 January 2026 by armed gunmen. Acting on actionable intelligence, troops of 82 Division Garrison deployed at Udenu trailed the kidnappers to the Itabolo General Area and subsequently engaged them at Okpakeke community. The encounter resulted in a fierce gun battle during which one of the criminals was neutralised on the spot, leading to the successful rescue of the victim.

During the operation, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, two magazines and 20 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. 

The Nigerian Army, in synergy with sister security agencies, remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to deny criminal elements freedom of action within the Joint Task Force Area of Responsibility.