Defence Headquarters confirms attack on Borno military formation

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed a midnight terror attack on a military base in Benisheikh, Borno State.

This confirmation was disclosed in a statement issued by defence spokesperson Micheal Onoja.

It was earlier reported that terrorists of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacked three military bases in Borno, including Benisheikh, where a commanding officer, Oseni Braimah, was reported killed.

The Defence Headquarters did not comment about the reported attack on the other military formations in Pulka and Mungono.

Noting that some soldiers lost their lives during a gun- fight, Mr Onoja said the attack was repelled by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, a joint task force in the North-east.

The defence spokesperson said the attack, which occurred at 12:30 a.m. on 9 April, was aimed at breaching the defensive perimeter of the base.

But he noted that the insurgents were met with what he described as “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower” from troops.

The defence spokesperson did not clarify whether Mr Braimah was among the military personnel killed during the attack.

However, he noted that the general mounted a coordinated counteroffensive, engaging the attackers and forcing them to retreat “in disarray,” abandoning the assault.

The military described the incident as indicative of the “desperation” of terrorist groups following recent losses inflicted by ongoing military operations in the North-east.

It added that the swift response by troops demonstrated a high level of combat readiness and operational effectiveness in defending critical military infrastructure.

Mr Onoja said the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, paid tribute to the fallen personnel, commending their sacrifice and service to the nation.