South Sudan’s Army (SSPDF) on Sunday, March 15, deployed troops in Akobo town, securing full control after announcing earlier in March that it had recaptured the area from opposition forces.
Akobo, located near the Ethiopian border in Jonglei state, had been the last stronghold of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) in the Lou Nuer regions, following the fall of bases in Nyirol and Uror counties.
This marks the first time the SSPDF has regained authority over Akobo since the outbreak of the civil war in December 2013.
Reports indicate that fighting occurred on Saturday morning before government troops entered the town with vehicles and military equipment. Residents reportedly fled to neighbouring Ethiopia ahead of the deployment. Videos shared on social media and reviewed by Radio Tamazuj confirmed the presence of SSPDF forces patrolling the town and establishing a security presence. The army had initially claimed to have recaptured Akobo on March 10, though a significant portion of its forces remained stationed at Dec-Deng across the river.
In coordination efforts, SSPDF commanding officers met with officials from the United Nations mission in Akobo to discuss maintaining security and restoring stability in the town.
The government-appointed Akobo County Commissioner, James Kueth Makuach, issued directives urging civilians to keep firearms at home and move freely without fear, emphasising accountability for those who defy the order.
Commissioner Makuach also encouraged residents who had fled the area to return voluntarily, appealing to local leaders, women, teachers, traders, faith-based organisations, and humanitarian groups to help normalise life in Akobo. His statement underscores the government’s intention to restore civilian administration and social services in the town following years of opposition control.
Meanwhile, the SPLM-IO-appointed commissioner, John Wiyual Lul, who crossed into Akobo-Tiergol on the Ethiopian side, addressed the Lou Nuer community during Sunday prayers. Lul urged the community to maintain peace and unity, advising displaced residents to remain alert while in temporary locations. The dual messaging reflects ongoing efforts to manage both security and civilian concerns as Akobo transitions back under government control.