A Brigadier General initially reported as abducted by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters following a deadly ambush on a military convoy in Borno State has safely returned to base.
The ambush, which occurred late Friday along the Biu road, was described as a highly coordinated attack by heavily armed insurgents.
It resulted in the deaths of several soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), according to reports from HumAngle.
The platform initially noted that the Brigade Commander had been missing for several hours after the attack, sparking concerns.
In a statement issued by Appolonia Anele, acting Director Army public relations on Saturday, the army debunked the abduction reports, confirming that the Brigadier General successfully led his troops back to base after repelling the ambush with superior firepower.
The Army also acknowledged the loss of two soldiers and two CJTF members during the confrontation, commending their bravery and sacrifice.
The statement reads: 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 team which was led by the Commander 25 Brigade Brigadier General M Uba and comprised troops of 25 Task Force Brigade and members of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) courageously fought through the insurgents ambush with superior fire power, forcing them to withdraw in dissaray and to abandone their mission.
“During the encounter two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation. 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.
“The Army Headquarters also wishes to debunk the fake narrative going round some media platforms online alleging the abduction of the Brigade Commander. 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, 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.”
