By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai has dismissed reports circulating in parts of the media and on social platforms regarding the recent terrorist attack in Benisheikh, describing them as false, misleading and exaggerated.
In a statement issued by its Media Information Officer, Sani Uba, the military said the narratives being circulated were aimed at distorting facts and undermining ongoing operations in the North East.
“The circulation of false, misleading and highly exaggerated reports… are not only inaccurate but constitute a deliberate attempt to distort facts, undermine ongoing military operations and erode public confidence,” the statement said.
The operation specifically refuted claims that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Oseni were killed during the incident.
“Operation HADIN KAI categorically refutes the claim that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, lost their lives during the incident,” it stated.
Providing the official figures, the military clarified that the casualties recorded were significantly lower.
“The official and verified report… clearly stated that 2 officers and 2 soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the engagement. Any contrary figure being circulated is entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility.”
The command also debunked claims suggesting that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle was faulty during the attack, explaining that the situation was misrepresented.
“The Commander was mounted on a high-grade Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle, which was temporarily immobilised in the heat of combat while he was actively coordinating the counter-assault,” the statement explained.
It added that images and videos being circulated in connection with the incident were unrelated and deliberately used to reinforce false narratives.
“The pictures and videos being circulated… are unrelated to the Benisheikh attack and are being deliberately misrepresented to reinforce false narratives.”
The military condemned what it described as attempts to politicise or exploit the incident, warning that such actions undermine the sacrifices of troops on the frontlines.
“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.”
Reaffirming its operational success, the command stated that troops successfully repelled the attack and maintained control of their position.
“It is pertinent to reiterate that troops… successfully repelled the attack, maintained control of their location, and forced the terrorists into a disorganised retreat.”
The statement noted that the outcome reflects the increasing combat effectiveness of troops and sustained pressure on terrorist groups in the theatre of operations.
While urging the public to rely on verified sources, the military maintained that it remains committed to professionalism and its constitutional mandate of defending the nation.
“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.”
