Military Denies Brigade Commander’s Death, Confirms 4 Soldiers Killed in Borno Attack
The Nigerian military has debunked widespread reports alleging heavy casualties, including the death of a Brigade Commander, during a recent terrorist attack on troops in Benisheikh, Borno State.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Headquarters Operation HADIN KAI described the circulating reports as false, misleading, and deliberately exaggerated, warning that such narratives undermine ongoing military operations and public confidence.
The military clarified that only four personnel—two officers and two soldiers—lost their lives during the encounter, contrary to claims that 17 soldiers, including a senior commander, were killed.
It also dismissed reports suggesting that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle broke down during the attack, stating that the commander was operating from a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle which became temporarily immobilised in the heat of combat while he was actively directing counter-operations.
According to the statement, the situation reflected the intensity of the engagement and the commander’s presence at the frontline, rather than any equipment failure.
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The military further noted that images and videos being circulated in connection with the incident were not related to the Benisheikh attack, accusing those spreading such content of deliberately misrepresenting facts to fuel misinformation and panic.
It condemned what it described as the distortion of operational realities for propaganda or personal gain, stressing that such actions diminish the sacrifices and professionalism of troops engaged in counter-terrorism operations.
The statement reaffirmed that troops successfully repelled the attack, retained control of their position, and forced the attackers into a disorganised retreat.
It added that the failed assault highlights sustained pressure on terrorist groups and the growing operational effectiveness of forces in the North-East theatre.
The military urged the public to rely only on official channels for verified information, cautioning against the spread of unconfirmed reports.
It reiterated its commitment to professionalism and its constitutional mandate of safeguarding national security, while assuring that timely and accurate updates on operations would continue to be provided through appropriate channels.
By PRNigeria
