The Nigerian military has rejected circulating reports of heavy casualties in Benisheikh, Borno State, calling the claims misleading and inaccurate. It also dismissed reports circulating on television and social media alleging that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed during a recent terrorist attack on a military location in the area.
In a statement issued on April 10, 2026, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) described the reports as false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to distort facts, undermine ongoing military operations, and erode public confidence.
The military clarified that the verified operational report showed that two officers and two soldiers lost their lives during the counter-assault.
It also dismissed claims that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle was unserviceable, explaining that he was mounted on a high-grade Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, which was only temporarily immobilised during intense combat while he coordinated troop movements.
OPHK further stated that photographs and videos being circulated in connection with the incident were unrelated to Benisheikh and were being misrepresented to mislead the public.
The military said it strongly condemns the distortion of operational facts, warning that such narratives undermine the sacrifices and professionalism of its personnel.
It added that troops successfully repelled the attack, maintained control of their position, and forced the terrorists into a disorganised retreat, highlighting improved combat effectiveness in the region.
The military urged the public to rely only on official sources for verified information and to avoid spreading unconfirmed reports.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at Headquarters, Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ commitment to professionalism and its constitutional mandate.
