Finally, Army Affirms Killing of Colonel, Six Soldiers

By George OPARA

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the killing of a commanding officer, Colonel I.A. Mohammed and six other soldiers following a terrorist attack on a military location in Monguno, Borno State.

Spokesperson for Operation Hadin Kai, Sani Uba, in a statement on Monday said troops of Sector 3 of the operation came under an “isolated infiltration attack” by terrorists at the Charlie 13 location in Monguno late on 12 April (Sunday).

Uba in his earlier statement did not disclose the name and the rank of the slain officer but tersely stated
that troops engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, eventually forcing them to retreat while maintaining control of the position.

But the army explained that the commanding officer was killed alongside six other personnel after encountering an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

Uba added that the officer was moving to the frontline to assess the situation when the incident occurred.

“Regrettably, the Commanding Officer, while courageously proceeding to the troops’ location to personally assess the situation, encountered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which severely affected his vehicle, leading to his death alongside six other gallant personnel”.

Uba, however, praised the late officer’s leadership, noting that his actions reflected courage, selflessness, and a commitment to leading from the front.