Residents Flee Ondo Community Over Soldiers, Militants Clash

Residents of a community in Ondo state have fled from their homes following a fierce gun battle between soldiers and militants. 

 

The clash occurred between the troops of the Nigeria Army under Operation Delta Safe and a militant group at Ajakpa creek in Ese Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
At least three soldiers and 15 members of the militant group lost their lives while dozens of people sustained severe injuries.

The leader of the militant group, Ossy Ibori, was also killed in the face-off.
Following the clash, there was heavy presence of security men in the area.
Officers and men of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigeria Army in Akure had moved in to join other security operatives in search of the fleeing militants.
A source says some residents in neighbouring communities are also preparing to flee their homes in case there are reprisals.
The source adds that, "as of this time many people have been leaving the community because of fear of stray bullets. No one knew that that notorious militant leader and his group were in the creek of the community.
"The incident has caused tension in the area. People are running away".