Nigerian Army General Feared Killed in Boko Haram Attack in Borno State
A senior Nigerian Army commander has been reported killed during a coordinated Boko Haram assault on military formations in Borno State, according to multiple local sources and officials.
Details of the Attack
Brigadier-General O. Braimah, the Brigade Commander of the Joint Task Force stationed in Benesheikh within Kaga Local Government Area, is feared to be among the casualties following a significant insurgent offensive that began on Wednesday night, April 8, and continued into Thursday, April 9.
Resident Malam Lawal Benesheikh confirmed the tragic development through a social media post, stating: "Innalillahi wa Inna’illaihin raji’un. Boko Haram has again, unfortunately, succeeded in eliminating the commanding officer of Benishiehk. This unfortunate incident occurred yesterday night when the insurgents stormed the military formation in numbers."
Official Confirmation and Multiple Assaults
Zanna Ajimi, Chairman of Kaga Local Government Area, provided official verification of the brigade commander's death, stating: "Yes, we just left the military base now, and I can confirm to you that the brigade commander is among the casualties."
The attack appears to have been part of a broader coordinated assault across multiple locations. According to sources cited by Daily Trust, terrorists initially targeted military bases in Bakin Ruwa and Pulka within Gwoza Local Government Area around 10:30 PM on Wednesday. During this initial phase, insurgents reportedly overran a military installation and set numerous assets ablaze.
The assault continued into the early hours of Thursday, with terrorists launching additional attacks on Benisheikh and Ngamdu towns, where they reportedly overran the 29 Task Force Brigade and destroyed several military vehicles.
Additional Damage and Looting
Beyond the military casualties, the insurgents engaged in widespread looting and destruction in Pulka town. Reports indicate they stole food items from local shops and damaged facilities belonging to a road construction company, including machinery and equipment.
This attack is particularly devastating as Pulka currently hosts thousands of displaced residents from Ngoshe town, who fled their community after a Boko Haram attack approximately one month ago.
Military Response and Official Silence
While sources indicate that several insurgents were killed during the exchange, the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident or confirm the reported casualties.
The attack represents one of the most significant security incidents in recent months, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Nigerian security forces in combating insurgent groups in the northeastern region of the country.
