Army speaks on ISWAP ambush, says General is safe
By Samuel Ogunsona
The Nigerian Army has spoken on the ambush of its soldiers by members of Islamic State of West Africa, (ISWAP)
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal also salutes the uncommon bravery, resilience and sacrifice of the gallant troops who have continued to operate in one of the most dangerous theatres of conflict on behalf of our dear nation.
In a statement made available to Irohinoodua, signed by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt Col Appolonia Anele said the leader of the team, General Uba was unhurt.
The Army said Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade, on routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa LGA of Borno State, came under a sudden and heavy insurgents fire while returning from a successful patrol within the fringes of Sambisa Forest.
According to the statement made available to Irohinoodua, the patrol team was led by the Commander 25 Brigade Brigadier General M Uba.
The team comprised troops of 25 Task Force Brigade and members of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
He said the troop courageously fought through the insurgents ambush with superior fire power, forcing them to withdraw in dissaray and to abandone their mission.
“During the encounter two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation.”
The Army commended the troops for their gallantry
The Army high command also commiserates with families and associates of the deceased gallants for their heroic sacrifice to the nation.
The Army Headquarters also debunked narrative that the Brigade Commander was abducted.
“The general public is hereby advised to disregard the fake news regarding the incident while praying for the continuous success of our gallant service men and women.”
The Army Chief of staff hailed the soldiers’ unflinching commitment, even in the face of grave danger, remains a powerful reminder of the daily sacrifices being made by our gallant service men and women to keep Nigeria safe.
