Boko Haram attack in Yobe claims 4 soldiers, destroys military assets

At least four Nigerian soldiers have lost their lives following a brazen attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on the 27 Task Force Brigade in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The assault occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, catching troops of Operation Hadin Kai off guard as the terrorists reportedly launched their offensive from the western axis of the military camp. Sources say the attackers destroyed key military assets and looted others before retreating.

The incident comes less than 24 hours after the 11th North East Governors Forum meeting in Damaturu, where regional leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tackling insurgency through a multidimensional security strategy.

The incident also coincided with a recent leadership change within the military command structure, as Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar just assumed duty as the new Theatre Commander, succeeding Major General Waidi Shaibu, who was unexpectedly removed.

A security operative who survived the attack described the scene as chaotic. “They came heavily armed and hit us hard. It was sudden, and we had to retreat under heavy fire. We lost good men, and they destroyed some of our equipment.”

The Nigerian military is yet to issue an official statement, but the loss is another grim reminder of the persistent security challenges plaguing the region, even as government officials and military leaders continue to seek lasting solutions.

“We were taken off guard by the heavy explosion and gunfire, but we stood our ground. A lot of our fighting equipment has been destroyed during the encounter.

“Yes, we lost four of our men, just as they also recorded casualties during the fierce battle that lasted for hours”. He said

The Nigerian army headquarters confirmed the attack via its verified Facebook page on Saturday morning.

“Troops of Operation HADIN KAI are currently in a fierce battle against an ISWAP attack at Buni Gari, Yobe State. Details later,” it stated.

However, the military is yet to give further details on the casualties as at the time of filing this report.

Buni Yadi is the country home of Yobe State governor, Mai Mala Buni, and a distance of 65km from Damaturu, the state capital.

Local source who fled to the local Council’s headquarters, Buni Yadi, said many residents have fled their homes to areas they consider safe, even as the Biu- Damaturu-Maiduguri road was temporarily closed which prevent motorists and passengers reach their destinations on time.

“The military had shut down vehicular movement on the busy road, which serves as a link between Yobe and Biu and other towns in southern Borno,” a passenger, Mallam Musa Isa said.