A commanding officer of Sector 3, Joint Task Force (North-East), and six soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists in Monguno, Borno State.
The attack comes just four days after the death of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, Commanding Officer of the 29 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, who was also killed alongside several soldiers.
The latest incident occurred late on April 12, when troops at the Charlie 13 position were targeted. They engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat.
However, the military confirmed that a Commanding Officer and six other personnel were killed after their vehicle struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) while moving to assess the situation.
A statement issued to newsmen on Monday in Maiduguri by the media information officer OPHK, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Sani Uba, said the officer died in the line of duty while demonstrating exceptional leadership.
“While courageously proceeding to the troops’ location to personally assess the situation, the Commanding Officer encountered an IED which led to his death alongside six other gallant personnel,” the statement said.
The military noted that the fallen officer’s actions reflected bravery and commitment to duty.
“His willingness to move towards the troops in the heat of the battle, despite the danger, stands as a profound testament to his valour and leadership,” Uba stated.
The operation described the incident as a painful loss, adding that the sacrifices of the deceased personnel would not be forgotten.
“Their sacrifice will forever remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the nation they served,” the statement added.
Troops, however, maintained control of the location after successfully repelling the attack.