…Brigade Commander, Soldiers Killed in Surprise Assault
…Gov Demands Urgent Review of Military Strategy
Daud Olatunji
Governor Babagana Zulum has raised serious concerns over an apparent intelligence failure following the deadly attack on a military formation in Benisheikh, Borno State, revealing that troops had prior warning of the assault three days before it occurred.
Zulum disclosed this on Saturday during a sympathy visit to the town, where he condemned the attack on the 15 Task Force Brigade, which resulted in the death of the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General OO Braimoh, and several soldiers.
The governor described the incident as shocking and avoidable, noting that credible intelligence indicating an imminent attack by suspected insurgents had been received well ahead of time but was not effectively utilised to prevent the tragedy.
“This is one of the most surprising attacks that I have witnessed in recent times,” Zulum said.
“There was information about this attack about three days ago. There is a need for the military to review its strategies and strengthen its response mechanisms.”
The assault, which also affected parts of the Benisheikh community, has sparked fresh concerns over coordination lapses within the security architecture in the North-East, where insurgent attacks have persisted despite ongoing military operations.
Findings during the visit revealed that local authorities were also aware of the intelligence reports before the attack.
The council chairman reportedly confirmed receiving prior warnings, further deepening concerns over why proactive measures were not taken.
Zulum stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of security frameworks, urging the military to reassess its intelligence processing and operational response to emerging threats.
He, however, assured troops of continued support from the state government, pledging to strengthen collaboration with security agencies and boost assistance to local vigilante groups.
The governor added that efforts would be intensified to build the resilience of affected communities and prevent Benisheikh from falling into the hands of insurgents.
The latest incident underscores lingering vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations, particularly in Borno State, widely regarded as the epicentre of the country’s protracted insurgency crisis.
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