Army: Brigadier general not abducted — he led troops back to base

The Nigerian army has denied reports stating that M. Uba, a brigadier general, was abducted when insurgents ambushed troops in Borno state.

On Friday, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters ambushed troops and soldiers at Damboa road along Wajiroko in Borno.

TheCable understands that the ISWAP fighters ambushed the troops and CJTF operatives who were transporting some military equipment.

During the gun duel, two CJTF operatives and two soldiers were killed.

At least 17 military motorcycles were seized by the ISWAP fighters.

TheCable understands that Uba, who was initially feared missing, was said to have returned to the military base.

In a statement on Saturday, Onyechi Anele, army spokesperson, said the brigadier general battled the “insurgents ambush with superior fire power, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and to abandon their mission”.

Anele said Uba led the troops back to the military base.

“During the encounter two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation,” the statement reads.

“While commending the troops for their gallantry, the Army high command commiserates with families and associates of the deceased gallants for their heroic sacrifice to the nation.

“The Army Headquarters also wishes to debunk the fake narrative going round some media platforms online alleging the abduction of the brigade commander.

“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.”