Suspected Boko Haram fighters have reportedly killed a Nigerian Army colonel, Col. I.A. Mohammed, along with six soldiers in an ambush in Monguno, Borno State, on April 12.
The incident was confirmed by the North-East Joint Task Force’s media information officer, Sani Uba. He explained that the troops were deployed to Monguno in response to an earlier attack on a military formation.
According to Uba, insurgents launched an हमला on Sunday night at the Charlie 13 location but were pushed back after an intense exchange of gunfire. He added that the commanding officer, while bravely moving to the troops’ position to personally assess the situation, encountered an improvised explosive device (IED). The explosion destroyed his vehicle, killing him and six soldiers.
Uba noted that the officer’s actions reflected exceptional military leadership, highlighting his courage, selflessness, and commitment to leading from the front. He emphasized that the officer’s decision to move toward his troops despite the danger demonstrated remarkable bravery and dedication to their welfare and mission success.
Operation HADIN KAI expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the fallen personnel as heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. Their memory, Uba said, will remain honored by the Armed Forces and the country.
This attack follows closely on the heels of another incident in Benisheikh, Borno State, where terrorists assaulted a military base, killing two soldiers and two officers, including Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah of the 29 Brigade.
