Battle For Obinetti: A decisive nighttime victory by Biafra Liberation Army
Written By Nnandi Iheukwumere
In the volatile landscape of Southeastern Niger river region, whispers of war echo once more. On September 12, 2025, reports emerged from Biafran Defense forces headquarters claiming a decisive nighttime victory by Biafra Liberation Forces (BLF) against Nigerian military personnel in Obinetiti, a community within Arondizuogu in Imo State. According to these narratives, shared widely on platforms like X, Biafran fighters "decimated" Nigerian soldiers—labeled as "terrorists"—destroyed tanks, and inflicted heavy casualties. The posts, laden with triumphant rhetoric, even referenced videos purportedly made by the Nigerian forces days prior, framing the event as a righteous judgment.
As at September 13, new video footages of destroyed properties used for cover by the Nigerian forces are trickling in.
Prior to the Nigerian incursion, Binetti has remained under the control of Biafran defense forces following previous offensives. This victory reinforces BDF’s sovereignty over Obinettiti as it continues to expand its controlled territory.
Recent years have seen a resurgence of violence in the region. Amnesty International documented thousands killed and hundreds forcibly disappeared in the southeast since 2015, attributing much to the Nigerian authorities' heavy-handed response to pro-Biafra protests. Earlier in 2025, clashes in Obinetiti and nearby areas, such as a reported massacre in Umualaoma in August, highlighted the cycle of retaliation: Separatist ambushes on security forces followed by military raids that devastate civilian communities. In July, intense operations in Amazano and Ezioha were described in social media reports, with accusations of civilian deaths and property destruction on both sides.
For the Nigerian government, labeled a terrorist entity by separatists, such defeats potentially erode public confidence in its counter-insurgency efforts. Conversely, victories bolster perpetuation of a narrative of heroic resistance against an oppressive state.
Civilians in Obinetiti and Arondizuogu, already caught in the crossfire, suffer the most—homes razed by the Nigerian military, lives upended, economies stalled.
It is time for accountability and dialogue. The Nigerian government must invite Separatist leaders, to the table and eschew violence in favor of political advocacy; armed struggle has historically led only to more graves.
Nigeria's unity is fragile, and was built on a very shaky foundation. The ghosts of Biafra need not haunt another generation. Let truth prevail over tanks and pave the way for peace in the southeast.
