Tragedy has struck again in Borno State as Boko Haram terrorists gun down a Nigerian Army Captain during a violent ambush in the Izge community of Gwoza Local Government Area. Military sources confirmed the fatal attack, which also claimed the life of a soldier serving alongside the fallen officer.
According to reports by Daily Trust, the Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, confirmed that the terrorists launched their attack around 1 a.m., engaging troops in a fierce exchange.
“It’s true that my people in Izge community came under Boko Haram attack around 1 a.m. Unfortunately, a Captain and a Soldier paid the supreme price,” the Emir stated.
However, he noted the bravery of security forces and community members, including the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), hunters, and vigilantes, who swiftly responded. In the counterattack, three of the terrorists were killed. The insurgents reportedly fled, abandoning over 10 motorcycles and weapons.
“May Allah (SWT) grant the departed souls Jannatul Firdaus. Our gallant men are still in the bush, sacrificing their lives to maintain peace in the society,” the Emir added.
This incident underscores the continued threat of terrorism in northern Nigeria. A recent report by SBM Intelligence revealed that no fewer than 2,000 lives were lost in Nigeria between January and March 2025 due to various violent incidents.
Among those killed during the first quarter were 136 security personnel, with Borno State recording the highest casualty figure of 515 deaths, followed by Zamfara (408), Katsina (155), and Benue (101). Others include Niger (68), Anambra (63), Edo (60), Ondo (59), and Kaduna (58).
Breakdown of the report shows:
- 892 civilians killed
- 462 bandits neutralized
- 119 vigilantes lost
- 234 Boko Haram members killed
- 42 kidnappers eliminated
- 66 cultists killed
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, also expressed concern over the persistent insecurity in the region. While he commended the military’s kinetic approach, he emphasized the need to embrace non-kinetic strategies as well.
“Borno State has, within the last three years, received more than 300,000 repentant Boko Haram fighters. Not all of them are fighters — some are farmers,” Zulum noted.
As military operations continue, communities remain on high alert, and the sacrifices of fallen heroes are remembered with solemn respect.
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