The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that Boko Haram and Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists launched a deadly attack on troops stationed at a stabilisation operation site in Gubio Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State. The attack, which occurred recently, has resulted in the deaths of five soldiers, with ten others wounded and four more soldiers still missing.
In an official statement released by Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, the DHQ provided detailed information about the tragic incident. “The coordinated attack saw five killed-in-action soldiers, 10 wounded, and four missing in action, while troops eliminated several terrorists, as well as recovered weapons,” Buba stated.
The assault involved several terrorist forces who engaged the troops in a fierce battle, leaving behind significant destruction. The DHQ confirmed that enemy forces destroyed important military equipment, including one gun truck, three troop-carrying vehicles (TCVs), and an excavator. Despite these losses, the troops managed to retaliate effectively, eliminating several of the attackers and recovering valuable weaponry.
The statement further revealed that the military quickly responded to the situation by dispatching a reinforcement team to the area. “Subsequently, a reinforcement team with an air component was dispatched to exploit the general area and the terrorists’ withdrawal route,” the DHQ said. This move was aimed at ensuring that the terrorists responsible for the attack were tracked and pursued.
While the loss of soldiers and equipment has deeply affected the military, the DHQ emphasized that such attacks would not deter the Nigerian Armed Forces from their mission. “It is pertinent to note that such an attack shall not deter the troops and Armed Forces of Nigeria from seeing the end of terrorism, insurgency, and other insecurity challenges facing the country,” the statement added.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has expressed his condolences to the military and the families of the fallen soldiers. In a statement issued through the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, Governor Zulum condemned the attack as a reminder of the brutality of the Boko Haram insurgents.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Borno, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the armed forces and families of the deceased over the demise of our fellow compatriots,” said Governor Zulum. “May Allah rest their souls and grant fortitude to the affected families,” he added, offering solace to those grieving the loss of their loved ones.
The coordinated attack serves as a stark reminder of the continuing threat posed by terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP in northern Nigeria. These groups have been involved in a long-running insurgency that has displaced millions and caused extensive destruction across the region.
As the Nigerian military continues to face these persistent threats, the deaths of these soldiers underscore the significant challenges that remain in the fight against terrorism. The reinforcement efforts and the pursuit of the terrorists’ withdrawal route are part of ongoing efforts to bring stability to the region and eliminate the forces responsible for the violence.
