By Sabiu Abdullahi
At least eight security personnel lost their lives after Boko Haram insurgents launched an attack on a Nigerian Army base in Borno State in the early hours of Friday.
The assault targeted the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mandaragirau, under the 25 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI, located in Biu Local Government Area.
Those killed included five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), according to military authorities.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Haruna Sani, said troops at the base successfully repelled the attack despite difficult weather conditions caused by heavy rainfall.
He said, “Troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau under 25 Brigade of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, successfully contained a terrorist attack in the early hours of this morning despite adverse weather conditions and poor visibility occasioned by heavy rainstorms.
“The terrorists launched the attack at approximately 0300 hours and attempted to breach sections of the FOB under the extreme weather conditions.
“Determined troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive, decisively frustrating further incursions and inflicting casualties on the attackers. The counter-assault underscores the resilience of the troops at FOB Mandaragirau and reflects the courage and determination of our troops across the theatre.”
Sani, however, confirmed that casualties were recorded among security personnel during the exchange of fire.
He stated, “Regrettably, in the course of the battle, five gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the intense firefight and close-quarter engagement, while some equipment was also affected by the firefight.
“Operation HADIN KAI honours their heroism and the bravery of all personnel who stood firm in the face of a determined but ultimately futile enemy assault.
“Three members of the CJTF also fell alongside troops, while those wounded have been promptly airlifted by the Air Component Command and are currently in stable condition while receiving appropriate medical care.”
The military spokesman said the deceased personnel demonstrated exceptional courage and commitment in the defence of the country.
He also assured that troops remain in control of the base and have continued operations in the area to consolidate their gains.
According to him, “These failed attacks further underscore the growing desperation of terrorist elements who continue to suffer devastating losses under sustained operational pressure. All necessary measures are being taken to protect communities and sustain relentless pressure, with the deployment of additional troops and critical combat enablers throughout the North-East theatre.”
Meanwhile, local sources told reporters that the insurgents attacked the military position after a heavy downpour and reportedly operated in the area for close to an hour.
The President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, also confirmed the incident and suggested that multiple locations came under attack.
“Yes, the attack occurred. They stormed the location and murdered many soldiers. It is not one place that was attacked,” he said.
Kaigama called for stronger security measures and greater community participation in intelligence gathering to help curb terrorist activities.
“The government needs to create avenues for people who are knowledgeable to discuss and review issues of insecurity. Just as they created forest guards, they must create a grassroots liaison initiative that is not controlled by the government. Through those people, some of these attacks can be reduced,” he stated.
