Monguno Attack: Commanding Officer, six others die in roadside bomb blast

Troops of Sector 3 under the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have repelled an attempted terrorist assault on their position in Monguno, Borno State, but suffered a devastating loss following an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion that claimed the lives of a Commanding Officer and six other personnel.

According to a statement issued on April 13, 2026, by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), the troops came under what was described as an isolated terrorist attack late on April 12 at a military location identified as “Charlie 13” in Monguno.

The insurgents reportedly engaged the troops in a fierce firefight. However, after intense exchanges, the attackers were forced to retreat, leaving the soldiers in firm control of the location.

Tragedy struck shortly afterward when the Commanding Officer, who had moved toward the troops’ position to personally assess the situation following the engagement, encountered an improvised explosive device planted along the route. The explosion severely damaged his vehicle, resulting in his death and that of six other gallant soldiers.

Military authorities described the late officer’s actions as emblematic of exemplary leadership and bravery. Despite the danger that lingered after the confrontation, he reportedly chose to advance toward his men to evaluate the operational situation firsthand.

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His conduct, the statement noted, reflected the finest traditions of military leadership — courage under fire, selfless service, and a steadfast commitment to leading from the front. His decision to proceed to the scene underscored his deep sense of duty and dedication to the welfare and operational effectiveness of his troops.

Operation HADIN KAI expressed profound sorrow over the loss of the officer and the six other personnel, describing them as heroes who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation.

“Their sacrifice will forever remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the grateful nation they served,” the statement added.

The North East theatre has remained a focal point of counterterrorism operations, with troops of Operation HADIN KAI continuing sustained efforts to dismantle insurgent networks and restore lasting peace to the region.