Nigerian Commanding Officer and Six Soldiers Killed in Borno State Terrorist Attack
A Commanding Officer and six other gallant soldiers have been killed by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Borno State, Nigeria, during a response to a terrorist attack. The incident occurred as the troops were proceeding to the location of Sector 3, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) after they came under attack by Tango terrorists.
Details of the Attack and Military Response
The Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, stated that the troops faced an isolated Tango terrorist attack at Charlie 13 location in Monguno in the late hours of April 12, 2026. This information was released in a statement via the Nigerian Army X handle @HQNigerianArmy on Monday, April 13, 2026.
According to Uba, the terrorists were successfully repelled, with troops maintaining control of the location following intense fire exchanges. He emphasized that the Commanding Officer was courageously proceeding to the troops' location to personally assess the situation when his vehicle encountered the IED, leading to his death alongside the six other personnel.
Bravery and Military Leadership Praised
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba praised the actions of the Commanding Officer, highlighting that they reflected the highest traditions of military leadership, including courage, selfless service, and leading from the front. He described the officer's willingness to move towards the danger as a profound testament to his valour, sense of duty, and unwavering commitment.
This tragic event follows previous incidents of military casualties in the region, such as the killing of Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah and 17 soldiers in coordinated ISWAP attacks on military bases in Borno. Major-General Michael Onoja had earlier commended troops for repelling terrorists with exceptional courage, while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condemned the killings as a sign of desperation.
Public Reactions and Ongoing Security Challenges
Public reactions to the news have been marked by grief and concern. Social media users expressed heartbreak over the sacrifices of the soldiers and called for increased efforts against terrorists. Some questioned the coordination of terrorist groups compared to the military, while others urged the army not to be deterred by sympathizers.
The military has confirmed that several soldiers were killed in the attack on the 29 Task Force Brigade in Borno State, with troops of Operation HADIN KAI, led by Brig. Gen. Oseni Braimah, repelling the attackers with superior firepower. However, the military declined to clarify the whereabouts of Brig. Gen. Oseni Braimah, sparking further speculation and concern among the public.
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Borno State and the broader North East region, where terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to pose significant threats to military personnel and civilians alike.
