By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports alleging that more than 40 soldiers were killed during recent terrorist attacks in parts of Borno State, describing the claim as misleading and a distortion of the realities on the ground.
The clarification followed a publication by Sahara Reporters which alleged heavy military casualties during the attacks. However, the Army said the report relied largely on unverified sources and failed to acknowledge the gallant resistance mounted by troops against the terrorists.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the military explained that the attacks were carried out by remnants of Boko Haram terrorists who had earlier been dislodged from the Sambisa Forest during sustained offensive operations by security forces.
According to the statement, the terrorists regrouped and launched coordinated night assaults from multiple directions on communities and troop locations around Konduga, Ngoshe, Mainok and Jakana.
The Army said troops on the ground responded swiftly and fought courageously to repel the attackers and protect the affected communities. During the intense firefights, several terrorists were neutralised.
The statement, however, confirmed that a Commanding Officer and some soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice while confronting the terrorists and preventing further devastation on surrounding communities.
The Army stressed that contrary to claims in the report, troops were not overrun by the terrorists. Rather, they engaged the attackers from multiple fronts in a determined effort to safeguard innocent civilians and restore stability in the affected areas.
It added that the terrorists resorted to indiscriminate use of explosives and heavy gunfire under the cover of darkness, actions which regrettably led to civilian casualties as residents were caught in the crossfire created by the attackers.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has visited the theatre of operations in Maiduguri to assess the situation and boost the morale of troops on the frontline.
During the visit, the Army chief met with commanders and personnel and ordered the immediate reinforcement of troops as well as the deployment of additional equipment to the affected areas to sustain ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
The Nigerian Army also disclosed that coordinated ground and air operations are currently underway to pursue the fleeing terrorists, dismantle their regrouping elements and rescue civilians who may have been abducted during the attacks.
While reaffirming its determination to defeat terrorism, the Army urged members of the public to disregard exaggerated reports capable of undermining the morale of troops who continue to make significant sacrifices in defence of the nation.
The military assured Nigerians that operations would continue with renewed intensity until all terrorist elements are decisively neutralised.
