Tinubu confirms army general’s killing, says Kebbi abduction happened despite ‘intelligence warnings’

President Bola Tinubu has confirmed the death of Musa Uba, a brigadier general, who was killed while on active duty fighting insurgents in Borno state.

Uba was reportedly killed by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters following an ambush on a convoy of soldiers and operatives of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno.

In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy on Tuesday, Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the general and other personnel’s death and extended condolences to their families and the military.

Tinubu also addressed the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko/Wasagu LGA of Kebbi state on Monday.

He said the kidnapping occurred despite prior intelligence warnings about a possible attack by bandits.

The president commended Mohammed Idris, governor of Kebbi, for efforts made to prevent the incident.

Tinubu also directed Vice-President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi to sympathise with the state government and reassure parents and guardians of the kidnapped girls that the federal government is committed to securing their swift and safe return.

Decrying the security breach that led to the abduction, the president urged communities across Nigeria, especially those in areas facing security challenges, to share timely information and intelligence with the military, police, and the Department of State Services (DSS).

He said security forces cannot operate effectively without the cooperation of local communities.

“As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes,” Tinubu said.

“It is heartbreaking that terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed security agencies to act swiftly to bring the girls back to Kebbi State.”

The president appealed to community leaders and citizens, particularly those in conflict zones, to provide useful information that will aid security operations.

“Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges,” he said.