The Nigerian Army has “denied social media reports claiming that the 25 Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. U. Uba, was kidnapped by insurgents.”
The commander had led troops of the 25 Brigade Task Force on a “routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.”
Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, said in a statement on Saturday that the troops “came under sudden and heavy insurgent fire while returning from a successful patrol within the fringes of Sambisa Forest.”
The army spokesperson said the team “courageously fought through the insurgents’ ambush with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and to abandon their mission.”
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She confirmed the team comprised troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
She stated: “During the encounter, two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation.”
She added: “The Army Headquarters also wishes to debunk the fake narrative going around 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 servicemen and women.”
Anele said the Army High Command “has commiserated with the families and associates of the deceased for their heroic sacrifice to the nation and commended the troops for their gallantry.”
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, “saluted 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 the nation.”
According to the COAS, “their unflinching commitment, even in the face of grave danger, remains a powerful reminder of the daily sacrifices made by our gallant service personnel to keep Nigeria safe.”
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