The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports claiming that ISWAP fighters abducted Brigadier General M. Uba during an ambush in Borno State.
The Army described the claim as false and urged Nigerians to ignore it.
The denial came after widespread rumours circulated across social media on Friday.
However, the Army confirmed that two soldiers and two Civilian Joint Task Force members died in the same attack.
The patrol team had been returning from a successful operation when insurgents opened fire near Wajiroko in Damboa Local Government Area.
The attack happened during a routine mission to secure nearby communities.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, who released an official statement, the ambush occurred as the team was leaving the fringes of Sambisa Forest.
She explained that the patrol was led by Brigadier General Uba, who was never captured as claimed online.
She said the viral reports were misleading and harmful, especially during active military operations.
She added that the troops fought back with superior firepower.
The soldiers, alongside CJTF members, engaged the attackers and forced them to retreat. She also noted that the insurgents abandoned their plans once they encountered heavy resistance.
Despite the successful response, the Army lost four personnel to the clash.
Anele described the fallen men as heroes who gave their lives in service to Nigeria.
She stressed that the Army deeply values their sacrifice and remains committed to ending terrorism in the region.
She also urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation that could undermine morale.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, praised the troops for their bravery.
He said their courage reflects the spirit of Nigerian soldiers operating in one of the most dangerous war zones.
He noted that their resilience, even under intense fire, shows their dedication to protecting the country.
Shaibu explained that troops in the Northeast confront danger daily. He also said their sacrifices remind Nigerians of the heavy cost of peace.
According to him, the Army will continue to support frontline personnel with resources and intelligence to defeat the insurgents.
Furthermore, he extended condolences to the families of the dead soldiers and CJTF members.
He promised that the Army would stand by them and honour the memory of their loved ones.
Although the ambush has raised concern, the Army maintains that its operations in Borno remain active.
It assured citizens that troops would sustain pressure on ISWAP fighters across the Sambisa axis. The command also appealed for cooperation from residents as operations continue.