Headquarters Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has dismissed what it described as false and exaggerated reports circulating across some television stations and social media platforms following the recent foiled terrorist attack on troops in Benisheikh.
The military said the narratives, often accompanied by unrelated pictures and videos, were deliberately designed to distort facts, undermine ongoing military operations, and erode public confidence.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, and made available to journalists in Maiduguri.
According to the statement, OPHK strongly refuted claims that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed during the attack.
“OPHK categorically refutes the claim that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, lost their lives during the incident,” the statement read.
“The official and verified report, as earlier released through Defence Headquarters, clearly stated that 2 officers and 2 soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the engagement.”
The military further described any contrary casualty figures as false and misleading.
“Any contrary figure being circulated is entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility,” the statement added.
Brigade Commander Not Using Faulty Vehicle — Military
The statement also dismissed claims that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle broke down during the operation, describing such reports as inaccurate.
“The insinuation that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle was unserviceable is equally incorrect. The Commander was mounted on a high-grade Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, which was temporarily immobilised in the heat of combat while he was actively coordinating the counter-assault.”
According to the military, the development reflected the intensity of the battle rather than any equipment failure.
“This reflects the intensity of the engagement and the presence of leadership at the decisive point, not any equipment failure.”
Military Warns Against Misleading Videos
Operation HADIN KAI also cautioned against the circulation of misleading multimedia content linked to the attack.
“Furthermore, the pictures and videos being circulated in connection with the incident are unrelated to the Benisheikh attack and are being deliberately misrepresented to reinforce false narratives.”
“The public is urged to disregard such content, which is clearly intended to misinform and create unnecessary panic.”
Troops Repelled Terrorists, Maintained Control
The military reaffirmed that troops successfully repelled the terrorists and maintained full control of their location.
“It is pertinent to reiterate that troops of Operation HADIN KAI successfully repelled the attack, maintained control of their location, and forced the terrorists into a disorganised retreat.”
“The failed assault underscores the sustained pressure on terrorist elements and the growing combat effectiveness of troops across the Theatre.”
Military Condemns Distortion of Facts
The Nigerian military also condemned what it described as attempts to exploit the incident for political or personal gain.
“The Nigerian military strongly frowns at the distortion of operational facts and the use of such unfortunate incident for personal/political gains or propaganda.”
“Such actions not only mislead the public but also diminish the sacrifices, courage, and professionalism of officers and men who continue to risk their lives daily in the defence of the nation.”
The military further reiterated its commitment to professionalism and constitutional responsibilities.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains professional and committed solely to their constitutional mandate.”
It added that the military remains the only credible source of operational information.
“The military remains the only credible source of verified information on its operations and will continue to provide timely and accurate updates through official channels.”
Members of the public were therefore advised to rely on official sources and avoid spreading unverified information.