By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade operating in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State successfully fought their way out of a terrorists’ ambush around Wajiroko in Azir Multe while returning from a routine patrol along the fringes of the Sambisa Forest.
In an official signed statement, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the patrol team led by the Commander of the 25 Brigade, Brigadier General M. Uba, and comprising soldiers of the brigade alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) came under sudden and heavy fire from insurgents but responded with superior firepower. The troops, she said, courageously fought through the ambush, forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray and abandon their mission.
During the encounter, two soldiers and two CJTF members paid the supreme price while defending the nation. The Army High Command commiserated with the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen personnel, describing them as gallant heroes whose sacrifice will forever be remembered.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele also dismissed circulating reports on social media alleging that the Brigade Commander was abducted during the attack, describing the claim as false and misleading. She urged the public to disregard the fake news, adding that the commander successfully led his men back to base.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal, lauded the troops for their bravery, resilience, and steadfast commitment despite operating in one of the most dangerous theatres of conflict in the country. He stressed that their courage in the face of grave danger reflects the daily sacrifices being made by Nigeria’s service men and women to keep the nation safe.
