The army has denied media reports that its general was kidnapped in a terror ambush near Wahiroko in Borno State.
However, it reported that four security personnel—two soldiers and two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)—were killed in a terrorist ambush near Wajiroko in Azir Multe, located in the Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
In a statement released on Saturday, the army noted that the troops “bravely fought through the insurgents’ ambush with superior firepower,” which compelled the attackers to retreat in chaos.
Army spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, stated on social media that the troops from the 25 Task Force Brigade, under the command of Brigadier General M. Uba, encountered “sudden and intense insurgent fire” while returning from a routine patrol near the outskirts of the Sambisa Forest.
Earlier reports from journalists indicated that the soldiers and CJTF members were killed by fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and there were claims that the brigade commander had been kidnapped.
Read also:
- Army Destroys ISWAP/Boko Haram Camps in Sambisa Forest
- Lake Chad Basin governors adopt Borno reintegration model to enthrone peace in N/East
- Terrorists invade Borno community, kill 25
However, the army clarified that the troops “valiantly fought through the insurgents’ ambush with superior firepower,” leading to the terrorists abandoning their mission.
While acknowledging the loss of two soldiers and two CJTF members who “made the ultimate sacrifice,” the army expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and commended their “heroic sacrifice for the nation.”
The army also stated that the brigade commander was not abducted during the incident and that no general had been kidnapped by the terrorists.
According to the statement, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu praised the “extraordinary bravery, resilience, and sacrifice” of the troops, emphasizing their commitment in one of the country’s most perilous conflict zones and the daily sacrifices made to ensure Nigeria’s safety.
