Army debunks Brigade Commander abduction rumour, confirms four killed in Borno ambush

The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports claiming that Brigadier General M. Uba, Commander of the 25 Task Force Brigade, was abducted during a terrorist ambush in the Wajiroko–Azir-Multe axis of Damboa Local Government Area, Borno State.

The clarification was issued in Maiduguri by Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, who confirmed that the reports circulating online were false and misleading.

According to Anele, the troops were on a routine patrol to secure vulnerable communities around Wajiroko and the fringes of the Sambisa Forest when they came under heavy fire from insurgents while returning to base. She said the patrol team, led by Brig.-Gen. Uba and supported by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), fought back bravely, repelling the ambush with superior firepower.

The insurgents were forced to withdraw in disarray, abandoning their mission.

Anele, however, confirmed that two soldiers and two members of the CJTF were killed in the clash. She noted that the Army Headquarters deeply sympathises with the families and associates of the fallen personnel, describing them as gallant heroes who died in active service to the nation.

She urged Nigerians to disregard the rumour of the Brigade Commander’s abduction, insisting that the narrative was entirely false.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, was quoted as praising the courage and resilience of the troops who continue to operate in one of the country’s most dangerous conflict zones.

Shaibu added that their commitment, even in the face of grave danger, remains a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made daily by Nigerian service men and women to keep the nation safe.