There is widespread jubilation across parts of the South East following the arrest of a notorious commander of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, popularly known as Gentle De Yahoo.

The Nigerian Army announced on Tuesday that the dreaded militant leader was captured in his hideout at Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, during a joint operation by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade and other security agencies.

According to the military, several items were recovered during the raid, including an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, a cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and even a German flag. Troops also discovered a workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled for resale and destroyed 10 motorcycles found at the scene.

A feared figure

For years, Gentle De Yahoo was one of the most feared militant leaders in the South East. He allegedly led “enforcement squads” that terrorized communities, enforcing sit-at-home orders with violence. Residents lived in fear of kidnappings, killings, and intimidation attributed to his network.

He has also been linked to several brutal crimes, including the killing and beheading of a military couple who had returned to Imo State for their wedding.

Jubilation and reactions

The news of his capture sparked joy among residents and leaders in the region. Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in a statement, commended the Federal Government and security agencies for what they described as a “decisive move” to end years of terror. The group called on other armed fighters to lay down their weapons, warning that “the era of impunity is over.”

“Ohanaeze urges the remnants of these militias still hiding in the bushes to vacate immediately. The days of terror have ended. The Igbo people are rising to reclaim their land and dignity,” the statement read.

APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe also hailed the arrest, claiming that Gentle De Yahoo may have killed more than a thousand Igbos between 2015 and 2025. “The South East has been liberated,” he said in a Facebook post.

Ordinary citizens also expressed relief. One resident told reporters:

“Every Monday we are forced to stay indoors because of fear. These so-called commanders thrive on intimidation. Knowing that one of them has been caught gives us hope that peace will return.”

Social media reactions

Across X (formerly Twitter), users shared their excitement:

@Kamzy: “Glory be to God, Gentle De Yahoo has been arrested. This is a big breakthrough to restoring peace in Imo State and the entire South East.”

@Mayor of Oru nation: “The capturing of Gentle De Yahoo alive is the end of insecurity in the South East and an enthronement of peace in Ala Igbo. Kudos to our security personnel.”

@Kitikpa: “This man was nothing but a commissioned political assassin disguised as a freedom fighter.”