Akobo | April 13, 2026
Fighters aligned with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition announced on Monday that they have regained control of Akobo, a key border town in eastern Jonglei State, following a short but intense confrontation with government troops.
John Wiyual Lul, the opposition-appointed commissioner of Akobo, confirmed that their forces seized the town from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces earlier in the day. According to him, SPLA-IO fighters moved into the town after overpowering government positions during the morning fighting.
He stated that the area is now calm and encouraged residents who had fled to neighboring Ethiopia or surrounding areas to return home.The latest development represents another shift in control of Akobo, which lies near the international border and has strategic importance. Government troops had previously taken the town in mid-March after civilians and aid workers were evacuated.
Local sources reported that SPLA-IO fighters, supported by allied White Army militia, secured the town after clashes that reportedly lasted about an hour. Videos circulating afterward showed armed fighters and civilians celebrating the takeover.In a separate statement, SPLA-IO spokesperson Col. Lam Paul Gabriel said their Sector 3 unit carried out the operation, which he claimed lasted roughly 50 minutes starting at around 5:30 a.m.
He added that several vehicles and weapons were captured, including armed pickup trucks and transport vehicles, along with various firearms.Meanwhile, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Lul Ruai Koang said he was unable to comment immediately, noting he was awaiting instructions from senior command.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan had recently indicated plans to shut down its temporary base in Akobo. The closure, initially set for late 2025, was postponed due to deteriorating security conditions in the area, according to UNMISS communications chief Francesca Mold.
