Defence Headquarters to Investigate Viral Video Claiming IPOB Commander's Return
The Defence Headquarters of Nigeria has announced it will conduct a thorough investigation into a widely circulated video that purports to show the return of Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, commonly known as 'Gentle de Yahoo,' a commander associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra and the Eastern Security Network. This development comes amid growing concerns over security in the southeastern region of the country.
Military Response to Alleged AI-Generated Footage
During a press briefing held on Friday, January 30, 2026, Major General Michael Onoja, the director of defence media operations, addressed the viral video that surfaced on social media platforms. The military spokesperson suggested that the footage might have been created using artificial intelligence technology, emphasizing the potential for such content to destabilize communities and spread panic.
Major General Onoja stated: "What I can say is that in this era of AI, it is possible to create anything just to destabilise and cause panic within society." He neither confirmed nor denied the authenticity of the video outright, maintaining a cautious approach while acknowledging the need for verification.
Background of Gentle de Yahoo's Alleged Activities
Gentle de Yahoo has been accused of involvement in numerous criminal activities across Nigeria's southeast, including:
- Multiple kidnappings targeting civilians and officials
- Violent attacks resulting in fatalities
- Coordination of security network operations in the region
In the controversial video that went viral on Thursday, January 29, the alleged commander claimed he had been poisoned while in government custody and issued direct warnings to Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State.
Previous Reports of Capture and Military Operations
The current investigation follows previous military announcements regarding Gentle de Yahoo's status. In September 2025, multiple media outlets reported that Nigerian Army troops had captured the alleged commander during a joint security operation in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
According to military statements at that time, the operation resulted in significant recoveries including:
- Various firearms and ammunition caches
- Military and police uniforms
- Communication devices and other incriminating evidence
- A vehicle dismantling workshop used for criminal activities
In October 2025, Major-General Markus Kangye, then director of defence media operations, officially confirmed the alleged capture during a briefing, noting that Gentle de Yahoo had been on military wanted lists across multiple southeastern states.
Commitment to Security and Necessary Actions
The Defence Headquarters has reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining peace and security across Nigeria. Major General Onoja emphasized that the military would collaborate with other security agencies to verify the claims presented in the viral video and take appropriate measures accordingly.
He declared: "Notwithstanding, we will take necessary action, with relevant security agencies, to confirm if it is true that he is back, and then necessary action will be taken to contain any individual or group that threatens our security."
This statement underscores the military's proactive approach to addressing potential security threats while maintaining transparency about their investigative processes. The situation highlights the evolving challenges security forces face in distinguishing between genuine threats and digitally manipulated content in the modern information landscape.
