By Harriet Tornguvan
The Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating in sections of the media regarding the recent foiled terrorist attack on a military position in Benisheikh, Borno State, reaffirming the professionalism and operational effectiveness of its troops.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North East), Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the command expressed concern over what it described as exaggerated and inaccurate narratives being disseminated across some television stations and social media platforms. According to the statement, the reports, often accompanied by unrelated images and videos, are deliberate attempts to distort facts, undermine military operations, and erode public confidence.
The command categorically refuted claims that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed during the incident. It clarified that the verified casualty figure, as earlier released by the Defence Headquarters, stands at two officers and two soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty. It stressed that any contrary figures being circulated are false and lack credibility.
OPHK also dismissed insinuations that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle was unserviceable during the engagement. It explained that the Commander was operating from a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, which was only temporarily immobilised amid the intensity of the battle while he coordinated counter-offensive operations. The development, the statement noted, reflected the realities of combat rather than any equipment failure.
The command further disassociated the Benisheikh incident from images and videos being shared online, noting that such materials are unrelated and have been deliberately misrepresented to reinforce false claims. It urged the public to disregard such content, warning that it is intended to misinform and create unnecessary panic.
Condemning the spread of misinformation, OPHK stated that the distortion of operational facts for personal or political motives undermines the sacrifices and professionalism of military personnel engaged in defending the nation. It reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to its constitutional responsibilities, emphasizing that its operations remain guided by professionalism and integrity.
The statement highlighted that troops successfully repelled the attack, retained control of their location, and forced the terrorists into a disorganised retreat. It described the failed assault as evidence of sustained pressure on insurgent elements and the increasing combat effectiveness of forces within the theatre of operations.
OPHK advised members of the public to rely on official military channels for accurate information and to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could compromise ongoing security efforts.
