The Headquarters, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating across sections of the media and social platforms concerning the recent terrorist attack on troops in Benisheikh, Borno State. The command maintained that the situation was effectively brought under control through professionalism and superior tactical response.

In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the military refuted claims that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed in the incident. It clarified that, in line with the earlier position of Defence Headquarters, the actual casualties were four personnel—two officers and two soldiers—who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

The command expressed concern over what it described as deliberate efforts to misinform the public through exaggerated casualty figures and the circulation of unrelated images and videos aimed at undermining confidence in ongoing military operations.

Providing further clarification on the status of the Brigade Commander, OPHK explained that he was positioned in a high-grade Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle at the height of the engagement. The vehicle was temporarily immobilised during the intense firefight, but the Commander remained actively involved, coordinating the counter-offensive from the frontline.

According to the military, this scenario highlighted both the intensity of the encounter and the presence of leadership at a critical moment, rather than any failure of equipment.

OPHK reiterated that the attack was successfully repelled, with troops holding their ground and forcing the terrorists into a disorganised retreat, a development it said reflects growing operational effectiveness across the theatre.

While condemning the spread of misinformation for political or personal motives, the military urged the public to rely on verified updates from official sources, warning that false narratives could incite unnecessary panic and weaken national security efforts.

The Armed Forces reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and its constitutional responsibility to protect the nation, while honouring the sacrifices of personnel engaged in the fight against terrorism.