The Nigerian Army’s loss of Brigadier General M Uba to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) is a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges in the region. This tragic incident occurred after a successful joint air-ground offensive against insurgents, highlighting the vulnerability of military personnel even in seemingly secure areas.
According to multiple security sources, the terrorists intercepted and tracked the Brigade Commander’s location along the Damboa-Biu axis in Borno State. The General’s communication, intended to reassure his superiors, inadvertently exposed his coordinates, leading to his capture and execution.
The operation began with ground forces, led by the Brigadier General, advancing into a booby-trapped area. Despite the Nigerian Air Force’s swift intervention, the commander’s tactical withdrawal and distress call could not prevent the tragic outcome.
SaharaReporters revealed that the abduction of the officers followed a violent ambush by ISWAP fighters, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and two CJTF members. The attack also led to the reported abduction of Brigadier General M Uba and two other soldiers, with the Army initially denying the abduction.
Military sources confirmed the commander’s live location was shared, leading to his capture. Despite deploying troops to the location, they returned without success. One soldier, shot and abducted, was reportedly freed, but the senior officer and two others remain missing.
The crisis prompted the appointment of Brigadier General Mustapha to lead the 26 Task Force Brigade in Damboa, with troops withdrawn early Sunday. Top military officers emphasized the abduction’s severity, revealing the capture of three soldiers, one of whom was shot and left behind. The Nigerian Army’s top commanders have since stormed the Damboa base to rescue the remaining captives.
This incident underscores the complex security landscape in northeastern Nigeria, where coordinated attacks by highly organized terrorists continue to pose a significant threat to military personnel and civilians alike.