Terrorists from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) stormed a Nigerian military camp in Borno State early Friday morning, killing Major U.I. Mairiga and at least six soldiers while leaving others missing, according to local reports.
The attack unfolded at the Kajeri camp, situated at the Bama-Banki-Gwoza intersection in Bama Local Government Area, Borno.
Eyewitness accounts shared on social media, including an Instagram video from a local resident, described a fierce overnight assault that began late Thursday and spilled into Friday dawn.
Insurgents overwhelmed the base, inflicting heavy casualties before retreating.
Sources indicate the terrorists targeted the outpost to disrupt military operations in the region, a hotspot for ongoing insurgent activity.
As news spread rapidly online, frustration mounted among Nigerians.
Many pointed fingers at recent comments from National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, who suggested engaging in dialogue with some terrorists.
In a public address, Ribadu stated, “Whether we like it or not, there are individuals in Nigeria, terrorists who also desire peace.
They are our fellow citizens. We must pursue dialogue and understanding with them.”
Critics argue this approach signals weakness, especially as attacks like this one escalate.
One social media user, replying to an official Nigerian Army update on unrelated successes, demanded, “When will you tell us about this?” highlighting a perceived gap in transparency.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of Friday evening.
This silence fuels speculation and concern in a state already battered by violence.
Borno has seen a surge in ISWAP operations this year, with similar raids in mid-February claiming over 10 lives among soldiers and civilians.
The group, an affiliate of the Islamic State that splintered from Boko Haram in 2016, continues to exploit remote areas for ambushes and bombings.
However, security forces have scored victories elsewhere.
Just hours before the attack reports surfaced, the army announced neutralizing several terrorists nationwide, recovering weapons, and dismantling illegal oil refining sites in the Niger Delta.
Yet, incidents like the Kajeri assault underscore the persistent threat, prompting calls for stronger countermeasures rather than talks.
In the wake of this tragedy, communities in Borno remain on edge, hoping for swift reinforcements to prevent further bloodshed.
As investigations unfold, the nation watches closely for how leaders will respond to these mounting challenges.
