The Nigerian Army high command yesterday dismissed reports circulating on some online platforms alleging that a Brigade Commander was kidnapped during a terrorists’ ambush along Damboa Road in Borno State.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, the Army described the claim as “fake news” and urged the public to disregard it completely.
Providing details of the incident, the statement explained that troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade were on a routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azi Multe, Damboa Local Government Area, when they came under sudden and heavy insurgent fire on Friday night while returning from a successful operation on the fringes of Sambisa Forest.
According to the statement, the patrol was led by the Commander 25 Brigade, Brig-Gen M. Uba, and included troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade as well as members of the Civilian Joint Task Force.
It said the personnel “courageously fought through the insurgents’ ambush with superior fire power,” forcing the attackers to flee in disarray and abandon their objective.
“During the encounter, two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation,” the statement said.
The Army high command praised the troops for their courage and extended condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen soldiers for their sacrifice.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, salutes the uncommon bravery, resilience and sacrifice of the gallant troops who have continued to operate in one of the most dangerous theatres of conflict on behalf of our dear nation.
“Their unflinching commitment, even in the face of grave danger, remains a powerful reminder of the daily sacrifices being made by our gallant service men and women to keep Nigeria safe,” the statement added.
