Crime

See the Number of Soldiers Killed in Boko Haram Attack on Military Base in Yobe

Published by Tope Fakinlede on May 4th, 2025.

See the Number of Soldiers Killed in Boko Haram Attack on Military Base in Yobe

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At least four Nigerian soldiers were reportedly killed during a coordinated assault by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on the 27 Task Force Brigade in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, according to News360 Nigeria.

Eyewitnesses and military sources said the attackers also destroyed several operational assets belonging to troops of Operation Hadin Kai, while some equipment was allegedly looted during the raid.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, just hours after the North East Governors Forum wrapped up its 11th meeting in Damaturu, where leaders had pledged to adopt a broader strategy to combat terrorism and insecurity in the region.

The attack coincided with the recent leadership transition at Operation Hadin Kai, as Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar took over command following the unexpected removal of his predecessor, Major General Waidi Shaibu.

A soldier who survived the attack told reporters the terrorists struck around 2 a.m. from the western flank of the military base, launching a surprise offensive with heavy gunfire and explosions.

“They caught us off guard, but we fought back hard,” the soldier said. “Unfortunately, we lost four of our men, and our equipment took a major hit. They also suffered casualties, but it was a fierce and prolonged battle.”

The Nigerian Army confirmed the confrontation via a brief post on its verified Facebook page, stating:

“Troops of Operation HADIN KAI are currently in a fierce battle against an ISWAP attack at Buni Gari, Yobe State. Details later.”

As of the time of this report, the military had not released further information on the full scale of casualties or damage.

Buni Yadi, the hometown of Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, lies about 65 kilometers from the state capital, Damaturu. In the aftermath of the attack, residents fled the area, seeking safety in nearby communities. Local sources also reported that the Biu-Damaturu-Maiduguri highway was temporarily closed, disrupting transportation and stranding travelers.

“The military blocked off the road linking Yobe and southern Borno,” said Mallam Musa Isa, a stranded passenger. “We couldn’t reach our destinations on time as all movement was halted.”