OPHK military issues statement on claims of deadly attack that left 40 troops dead

The Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force North East 'Operation HADIN KAI', has rejected a report by Sahara Reporters claiming that over 40 soldiers were killed in multiple Boko Haram attacks in Borno State, describing it as inaccurate.

This dismissal was conveyed in a statement issued by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East 'Operation HADIN KAI', on Saturday night, outlining the Army's position on the matter.

The statement expressed concern over the report, which allegedly relied on unverified sources, and presented a distorted view of the incident, failing to acknowledge the bravery of troops who defended communities against terrorist attacks.

The Boko Haram terrorists, who had been dislodged from the Sambisa Forest, regrouped and launched coordinated night attacks on multiple communities and troops' locations around Konduga, Ngoshe, Mainok, and Jakana general areas.

Troops on the ground responded swiftly, fighting gallantly to repel the terrorists and protect the affected communities, resulting in the neutralization of several terrorists, but sadly, a Commanding Officer and some soldiers lost their lives in the process.

Contrary to the report, the troops were not overrun, but instead, engaged the terrorists from multiple fronts to protect civilians and restore normalcy, with the attackers using indiscriminate explosives and heavy gunfire, causing civilian casualties.

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, visited the theatre of operations in Maiduguri, meeting with troops and commanders to reassess the situation and strengthen counter-terrorism efforts, directing the reinforcement of troops and deployment of additional equipment to the affected areas.

The Nigerian Army remains committed to decisively dealing with the terrorists, with coordinated ground and air operations currently underway to pursue the fleeing terrorists, dismantle their regrouping elements, and rescue abducted civilians.

The Army has urged the public to disregard exaggerated reports aimed at undermining the morale of troops, assuring Nigerians that it will maintain operational momentum until all terrorist elements are completely neutralized, as explained by Lt. Col. Sani Uba.