Cross River State achieved a significant peace breakthrough on Friday, 16 January 2026, as dozens of militants operating within the Akpabuyo Local Government Area voluntarily laid down their arms under the state government's comprehensive amnesty programme. This crucial development unfolded in the early hours of the day when a substantial number of militants emerged from their hideouts in the creeks and presented themselves for amnesty at Atimbo Rear Area, Operation OKWOK, in Akpabuyo.

According to a statement issued by Headquarters 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the participating militants were drawn from two prominent and notorious camps. The first group, comprising 39 fighters, was led by ThankGod Ebikontei, also known by his alias Ayibanuagha. The second camp, which surrendered 41 fighters, was headed by John Isaac, popularly known as Akpokolo, whose group is widely recognized as the Akpokolo Marine Forces or Border Boys, bringing the total number of repentant militants to 80.

During the exercise, the militants voluntarily surrendered a diverse and sophisticated cache of weapons, ammunition, and other critical items. The surrendered arsenal included three AK-47 rifles, two pump-action guns, one Mark 4 rifle, one G3 rifle, and twelve single-barrel guns. Ammunition and accessories were also turned in, such as ten AK-47 magazines, nineteen rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and eighty-four DENGUN cartridges. Notably, one C4 charge explosive was also among the items. Furthermore, the militants relinquished marine equipment, including three speedboats and four boat house power engines, along with assorted military kits, tools, locally fabricated weapons, and other accessories.

Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, the Commander of 13 Brigade, lauded this development as a significant confidence-building milestone in the ongoing, dedicated efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across Cross River State. He emphasized that the voluntary surrender underscored the effectiveness of a multi-faceted approach, combining sustained military operations with constructive engagement and close collaboration involving the Cross River State Government and various other security agencies in addressing complex security challenges.

Brigadier General Alimikhena further assured the public that the 13 Brigade would maintain its commitment to providing a secure environment, while actively supporting all lawful initiatives aimed at successfully reintegrating repentant youths and ensuring enduring stability throughout its extensive area of responsibility. Following the successful completion of the amnesty process, the former militants were formally handed over to the Cross River State Government's Rapid Response Team. They are currently undergoing thorough profiling by the State Security Service at Muka Sam Hotel, located in Ikot Ansa, Calabar.

The Nigerian Army extended its commendation to the Cross River State Government, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, for its unwavering commitment to fostering peace and security within the state. The army highlighted that the state's proactive engagement and meticulous coordination were instrumental to the resounding success of the amnesty programme. The official statement concluded by emphasizing the critical importance of effective civil-military collaboration in promoting sustainable peace, while simultaneously urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to ensure Cross River State remains safe and secure for all its residents.