Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has described the killing of Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers in a Boko Haram attack in Benisheikh, Borno State, as a tragic reminder of the need to reassess how Nigeria values human life.
Reacting via his 𝕏 account on Friday, Obi said the incident underscores the urgency of strengthening national commitment to protecting citizens, particularly members of the armed forces who risk their lives in defence of the country.
He noted that the loss of military personnel in combat situations should prompt deeper reflection, adding that nations across the world place significant priority on the rescue and protection of their soldiers.
Obi also extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for strength and comfort in the face of the loss. He emphasized that the fallen soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation and deserve to be honoured.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has pushed back against reports suggesting that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed in the Benisheikh attack.
In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, spokesperson for the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, the Army clarified that the confirmed casualties were two officers and two soldiers.
The military also dismissed claims that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle failed during the attack, explaining that he was operating in a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, which was only temporarily immobilised amid intense fighting as he coordinated a counter-assault.
Additionally, the Army warned against the spread of misleading videos and images circulating online, stating that many of them are unrelated to the Benisheikh incident and are being used to promote false narratives.
Authorities reiterated that troops successfully repelled the attack and maintained control of their position, urging the public to rely on official sources for accurate updates on military operations.
