The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports claiming that more than 40 soldiers were killed during recent terrorist attacks in Borno State, describing the figures as inaccurate and based on unverified sources.
The clarification was made in a statement by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Sani Uba, on Saturday.
Army Says Report Misrepresented Situation
According to the statement, the attacks were carried out by remnants of Boko Haram fighters who regrouped after being dislodged from the Sambisa Forest.
The insurgents reportedly launched coordinated night assaults on communities and military positions in parts of Borno State, including:
- Konduga
- Ngoshe
- Mainok
- Jakana
Uba said troops engaged the attackers and successfully repelled them, killing several terrorists during the confrontations.
Army Confirms Death of Officer, Soldiers
While denying the claim that dozens of troops were killed, the army confirmed that casualties were recorded during the clashes.
According to Uba, a commanding officer and some soldiers lost their lives while defending the affected communities.
He stressed that troops were not overrun as reported but fought back across multiple locations.
Army Chief Visits Maiduguri for Assessment
The statement also confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, visited Maiduguri to assess the situation and review ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
During the visit, the army chief reportedly ordered:
- Reinforcement of troops
- Deployment of additional equipment
- Intensification of ground and air operations
Operations Ongoing to Rescue Victims
The army said joint operations are continuing across the North-East to pursue fleeing insurgents and rescue civilians who may have been abducted during the attacks.
Authorities urged the public to rely on official updates and avoid spreading unverified casualty figures.
