By O’tega Onojeharho
The Nigerian Army has categorically denied reports circulating on social media alleging the abduction of Brigadier General M Uba, the Commander of the 25 Task Force Brigade, following a terrorist ambush in Borno State. In an official statement, the Army described the incident as a successful repulsion of insurgents, while mourning the loss of four personnel.
According to the statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade, on routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa LGA of Borno State, came under a sudden and heavy insurgents fire while returning from a successful patrol within the fringes of Sambisa Forest.”
The patrol, which was personally led by Brigadier General M Uba and included members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), responded decisively. The statement noted that the team “courageously fought through the insurgents ambush with superior fire power, forcing them to withdraw in dissaray and to abandone their mission.” This action ensured the troops’ safe return to base, with the Brigade Commander at the helm.
Tragically, the encounter resulted in casualties. “During the encounter two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation,” the statement read. The Army High Command extended condolences, stating, “While commending the troops for their gallantry, the Army high command commiserates with families and associates of the deceased gallants for their heroic sacrifice to the nation.”
Addressing the misinformation, the Army explicitly debunked claims of the commander’s abduction. “The Army Headquarters also wishes to debunk the fake narrative going round some media platforms online alleging the abduction of the Brigade Commander,” the release emphasized. It further advised, “The general public is hereby advised to disregard the fake news regarding the incident while praying for the continuous success of our gallant service men and women.”
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, praised the troops’ valor in the statement: “The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal, 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.”
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s northeast, where Nigerian forces continue to combat insurgent groups linked to Boko Haram and other militants in areas like the Sambisa Forest. The Army’s prompt rebuttal aims to counter disinformation that could undermine public confidence in military operations.
