The Nigerian military has dismissed widespread reports claiming that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed during a recent terrorist attack in Benisheikh, Borno State, describing the information as false, misleading, and deliberately exaggerated.

In a statement issued by the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI, the military clarified that the actual casualty figure from the incident was four personnel — two officers and two soldiers, as previously confirmed by Defence Headquarters.

According to the statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, several media platforms and social media accounts circulated inaccurate reports, often accompanied by unrelated photos and videos falsely linked to the attack.
The military warned that such content:
Distorts facts about ongoing operations
Undermines troop morale
Erodes public confidence in security efforts

“These narratives are not only inaccurate but a deliberate attempt to misinform the public,” the statement noted.


The military also dismissed claims that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle was faulty during the engagement.
Instead, it explained that:

The commander was operating from a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle
The vehicle was temporarily immobilised during intense combat, not due to mechanical failure
The situation reflected the intensity of the battle and frontline leadership, not negligence


Operation HADIN KAI emphasized that troops successfully repelled the terrorist assault, maintained control of their position, and forced the attackers into a disorganised withdrawal.

The military described the outcome as evidence of:

Sustained operational pressure on insurgents

Improved combat effectiveness of troops in the North-East

The Armed Forces however cautioned against the spread of unverified information, stressing that such actions:

Undermine national security efforts

Disrespect the sacrifices of fallen soldiers

May serve political or propaganda purposes

The public was urged to rely only on official military communications for accurate updates.

Reiterating its stance, the military assured Nigerians of its professionalism and commitment to defending the country, stating that operations against insurgents will continue with determination.

“The Armed Forces remain the only credible source of verified operational information,” the statement concluded.