At least three Nigerian soldiers have been confirmed dead following a deadly assault by Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (BHT/ISWAP) terrorists on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wajiroko, Borno State.
The attack occurred around 10:00 PM on Monday, leading to significant casualties and chaos among the troops stationed at the base. SaharaReporters has learned that, in addition to the fatalities, the Brigade Commander and two other soldiers sustained serious injuries.
A military signal obtained on Tuesday revealed that the full scope of the attack remains unclear. However, intelligence from a surveillance drone showed visible flames engulfing parts of the base. Several troops were also seen retreating toward Sabongari, suggesting that the FOB may have been overrun by insurgents.
The signal read in part:
“At approximately 242205A MAR 25, own troops at FOB Wajiroko came under attack by BHT/ISWAP terrorists. This prompted the Brigade to call for air support in addition to deploying a reinforcement (RFT) team immediately. However, the RFT team encountered an IED along the MSR. Consequently, a second RFT, led by Comd 25 BDE, Brig Gen UF Abubakar (N/10661), was dispatched toward Azir Bridge.
“At approximately 250045A MAR 25, while the second RFT was still en route, the Brigade Commander’s Hilux vehicle encountered an IED between Damboa and Azir Bridge. As a result of the explosion, some three Soldiers were KIA. Additionally, the Brigade Commander and two soldiers, 22NA/82/5757 PTE Mohammed Hashim and 12NA/68/7570 CPL Ibrahim Musa, sustained injuries (WIA).
“Details of the attack on the FOB remain sketchy. However, the Phantom pilot reported observing fire around the FOB and saw scores of soldiers running toward Sabongari, suggesting that the FOB may have been dislodged. Further details of the attack will be provided as soon as they become available.
“The general security situation within the AOR remains fluid. Troops remain on maximum alert.”
The identities of the deceased soldiers are being withheld pending notification of their families by military authorities.
As of this report, the Nigerian military has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, sources confirm that reinforcement efforts are underway and that troops remain on high alert as they work to stabilize the area.
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