At least four soldiers lost their lives when suspected Boko Haram insurgents launched a surprise attack on the 27 Task Force Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Buni Yadi, located in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The deadly assault occurred around 2 a.m. on Saturday, just a day after the North East Governors Forum convened in Damaturu, the state capital, where they resolved to adopt a comprehensive strategy to address the insurgency plaguing the region.
A security operative who survived the incident recounted the harrowing experience, noting that the attackers arrived with heavy firepower.
“We were taken off guard by the heavy explosion and gunfire, but we stood our ground. A lot of our fighting equipment were destroyed during the encounter,” he said.
Confirming the development, the Nigerian Army posted a statement on its verified Facebook page on Saturday morning.
“Troops of Operation HADIN KAI currently in a fierce battle against ISWAP attack at Buni Gari, Yobe State. Details later,” the brief statement read.
As of the time this report was filed, the military had not provided further information on the extent of casualties or damage.
Buni Yadi is approximately 65 kilometers from Damaturu and is the hometown of the sitting governor, Mai Mala Buni.
Residents in the area have been left terrified, with many fleeing to the local government headquarters for safety.
“The military had shut down vehicular movement on the busy road, which serves as a link between Yobe and Biu and other towns in southern Borno,” a local resident said.
This latest strike follows a similar attack two weeks ago, when insurgents stormed a military location in the Chalie area of Buni Yadi, killing three soldiers.
Communities across Borno State have been facing consistent threats in recent months, with armed groups targeting villages and military installations.
In areas like Sabon Gari, Wajiroko, and Wulgo, the insurgents have reportedly overpowered troops, looting weapons and ammunition in the process.
Concerned by the persistent insecurity, Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Shehu of Borno, Senator Ali Ndume, and other key stakeholders have called on the federal government to take decisive action to stem the violence.
