Quick Summary:
Defence Headquarters confirms ISWAP attack on Benisheikh military base, says troops repelled assault; silent on reports of Brig.-Gen. O.O. Braimah’s death.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that troops of Operation Hadin Kai repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a military base in Benisheikh, Borno State.
The attack occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, when insurgents attempted to breach the Headquarters of the 29 Task Force Brigade.
According to the DHQ, troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the attackers to retreat and abandon their mission.
DHQ Silent On Reported Death Of Brigade Commander
While confirming the attack, the Defence Headquarters did not address reports that Brigadier General O.O. Braimah, the Brigade Commander of the Joint Task Force in Benisheikh, was killed during the assault.
Security sources and local reports had earlier claimed that the senior officer was among those killed in the attack.
Soldiers Killed, CDS Pays Tribute
The DHQ acknowledged that some soldiers lost their lives in the encounter.
It said the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has paid tribute to the fallen personnel and extended condolences to their families.
The military noted that further details would be released after next of kin have been notified.
Attack Seen As Sign Of Desperation
The DHQ described the assault as a sign of desperation by terrorist groups following recent operational losses in the North-East.
It urged the public to disregard unverified reports and misinformation circulating on social media regarding the incident.
Clearance Operations Underway
The military confirmed that clearance operations are ongoing in the Benisheikh area to track fleeing insurgents and prevent regrouping.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining counterterrorism operations and called on citizens to support security agencies with credible intelligence to enhance national security.