Gunmen Kill Soldier in Attack on Enugu’s New Artisan Market

A Nigerian soldier identified as Aaharif Ibrahim has been killed by unknown gunmen during an attack at the New Artisan Market in Enugu State. The market, commonly referred to as the “Hausa Market,” is located near Naira Triangle along the Enugu-Okigwe Federal Road in the Abakpa area of the state capital.

The attack occurred on Wednesday evening when masked assailants ambushed a military vehicle in the market, which is predominantly occupied by northerners. Ibrahim, who hailed from Borno State and was serving with the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, was reportedly part of a special military operation tasked with handling rising tensions and separatist threats in the South-East.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers opened fire on the vehicle, killing the soldier on the spot while other personnel fled the scene. A source described the incident as an ambush allegedly carried out by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), though the group has denied involvement in recent attacks.

The incident adds to the growing wave of insecurity in the South-East, where states like Anambra, Imo, and Enugu have seen frequent and deadly assaults on both civilians and security personnel. Government officials and facilities have also come under attack, further heightening tensions in the region.

While the Nigerian government continues to accuse IPOB of orchestrating these acts of violence, the group has consistently rejected any responsibility.