Borno Attacks: Army Dismisses Claims About Killing of 40 Soldiers
The Nigerian Army has refuted reports claiming that over 40 soldiers were killed during recent terrorist attacks in parts of Borno State, describing such accounts as misleading and based on unverified sources. The Army emphasized that the reports fail to reflect the courage and professionalism displayed by troops who defended local communities against coordinated assaults by Boko Haram remnants.
According to a statement by Sani Uba, the attacks occurred when terrorists, previously dislodged from the Sambisa Forest during ongoing military offensives, regrouped and launched coordinated night raids on vulnerable communities and military positions across Konduga, Ngoshe, Mainok, and Jakana.
Troops on the ground responded swiftly, engaging the attackers from multiple directions to defend civilians and prevent further destruction. While some personnel, including a Commanding Officer, were tragically killed, the Army stressed that soldiers were not overrun as claimed in some reports. Instead, their determined defense successfully repelled the terrorists, neutralizing several assailants and limiting the impact on surrounding communities.
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The statement also noted that the attackers indiscriminately used explosives and heavy night gunfire, which unfortunately resulted in civilian casualties as residents were caught in the crossfire.
Following the attacks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu visited the theatre of operations in Maiduguri to reassess the situation, meet with troops, and strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. He directed the immediate reinforcement of forces and deployment of additional equipment to sustain operations against fleeing terrorist elements.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to decisively pursue terrorists, dismantle their regrouping units, and rescue civilians who may have been abducted. Coordinated ground and air operations under Operation Hadin Kai are ongoing to restore security across affected communities.
The Nigerian Army urged the public to disregard exaggerated or misleading reports that could undermine troop morale, emphasizing that the operational momentum will continue until all terrorist elements in the region are neutralized.
“This is a heroic sacrifice by our troops, and their gallantry continues to protect innocent lives and restore normalcy in the North-East,” the Army stated.
By PRNigeria
