Army clarifies report on terrorists killing 17 soldiers, 1 Brigadier General in Borno

The Nigerian Army has clarified a viral report that 17 soldiers including a Brigadier General were killed during a terrorist attack on troops in  Benihheikh, Borno State.

In a statement issued on Friday, April 10, the Headquarters Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) expressed concern over the report, which it described as false, misleading, and highly exaggerated.

Signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer, Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East) for Operation HADIN KAI, the statement said the reports, often accompanied by pictures and videos, constitute a deliberate attempt to distort facts, undermine ongoing military operations, and erode public confidence.

According to Uba, the OPHK categorically refutes the claim that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, lost their lives during the incident.

He said that the official and verified report, as earlier released through the Defence Headquarters, clearly stated that 2 officers and 2 soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the engagement. Any contrary figure being circulated is entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility.

He further noted that the claim that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle was unserviceable is equally incorrect.

“The Commander was mounted on a high-grade Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, which was temporarily immobilised in the heat of combat while he was actively coordinating the counter-assault.

“This reflects the intensity of the engagement and the presence of leadership at the decisive point, not any equipment failure. Furthermore, the pictures and videos being circulated in connection with the incident are unrelated to the Benisheikh attack and are being deliberately misrepresented to reinforce false narratives,” Uba said.

Also urging the public to disregard such reports, Uba said the Nigerian military strongly frowns at the distortion of operational facts and the use of such unfortunate incidents for personal or political gains or propaganda.

He warned that such actions not only mislead the public but also diminish the sacrifices, courage, and professionalism of officers and men who continue to risk their lives daily in the defence of the nation.

“It is pertinent to reiterate that troops of Operation HADIN KAI successfully repelled the attack, maintained control of their location, and forced the terrorists into a disorganised retreat.

“The failed assault underscores the sustained pressure on terrorist elements and the growing combat effectiveness of troops across the Theatre. The military remains the only credible source of verified information on its operations and will continue to provide timely and accurate updates through official channels. Members of the public are therefore advised to rely on such sources and refrain from spreading unverified information,” he said.