A military base in Borno State was attacked by Boko Haram on Thursday at around 12:30 am. The attack led to the death of soldiers, including the commander of the brigade. 

At around 12:30 am, on April 9, Boko Haram attacked the headquarters of the 29 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area. According to multiple reports, the Defense Headquarters said that the attack was an attempt to breach the base perimeter, but the attackers were pushed back and forced to retreat. 

After the attack, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu released a statement addressing the issue on his verified profile via X. 

In the statement, the president sent his condolences to the families and loved ones of the soldiers that lost their lives, including the Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah, who was the commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade. 

“I extend my condolences to families of our gallant soldiers led by Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of our country in Borno State,” he stated. 

The Chairman of Kaga Local Government, Zanna Ajimi, also confirmed the death of the commander directly to journalists, after visiting the base after the attack. So far, the exact number of the soldiers that died have not been released, but the military described the loss as “few” with no further details on the exact number of deaths. 

Multiple videos and photos of the aftermath of the attack show shops which were near the military base set on fire, including armored vehicles.

President Tinubu further adressed the attack, saying it was an act of desperation by the attackers that has taken serious damage from multiple military operations. 

“I urge Nigerians and the media to continue to support our Military inn their relentless battle against insurgency and banditry. We should desist from celebrating or condoning the attacks against our troops.”