Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
THE Theatre Command of North-East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) has dismissed reports claiming that more than 17 Nigerian soldiers were killed in a recent Boko Haram attack in Benisheikh, Borno State, describing the accounts as false and exaggerated.
In a statement issued on Friday, OPHK spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Uba Sani said the command was deeply concerned by what it described as misleading narratives circulating on some television stations and social media platforms following the attempted terrorist assault on troops’ positions in Benisheikh.
According to the statement, the reports, often accompanied by unrelated photographs and videos, were deliberately aimed at distorting facts, undermining military operations and eroding public confidence in the Armed Forces.
Lt Col Sani firmly rejected claims that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed in the incident. He clarified that the officially verified casualty figure, as previously released by Defence Headquarters, remained four personnel — two officers and two soldiers.
“Any contrary figure being circulated is entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility,” he stated.
The command also refuted suggestions that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle broke down during the engagement. It explained that the commander was operating from a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, which was only temporarily immobilised during intense combat while he coordinated the counter-attack.
“This reflects the intensity of the engagement and the presence of leadership at the decisive point, not any equipment failure,” the statement noted.
Operation Hadin Kai further said that images and video clips being shared online in connection with the incident were unrelated to the Benisheikh attack and had been deliberately misrepresented to reinforce false claims.
The military urged the public to disregard such material, warning that it was designed to spread misinformation and create unnecessary panic.
Condemning what it termed the politicisation and exploitation of operational incidents, the command said such actions undermine the sacrifices and professionalism of troops risking their lives daily in defence of the nation.
The statement reaffirmed that troops successfully repelled the terrorist attack, retained control of their location, and forced the insurgents into a disorganised retreat.
“The failed assault underscores the sustained pressure on terrorist elements and the growing combat effectiveness of troops across the theatre,” the statement added.
OPHK advised the public to rely only on official military channels for verified updates and to refrain from sharing unconfirmed reports.
