Boko Haram terrorists overwhelm military base, after using a surveillance drone for intelligence
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Boko Haram terrorists have overwhelmed a military base in Sabon Gari, Damboa Council of Borno, a surprise attack in which they murdered dozens of soldiers and vigilantes, and stole military weapons.
The onslaught occurred around 4pm on Saturday and was confirmed by security and local sources.
A security source narrated that the heavily armed insurgents launched the assault in large numbers, overwhelming the troops despite a strong defence, per Daily Post.
“The base has endured over 100 attacks in the past, but this was one of the most devastating. Many soldiers and vigilantes were killed, and the insurgents seized all the armament at the base.
“They also set operational vehicles and buildings on fire,” he added.
The attackers reportedly used a surveillance drone to assess the base before the onslaught. “At first, we thought the drone was part of a military operation,” said the source.
The exact death toll remains uncertain but more than 12 bodies have been recovered so far.
The insurgents are believed to have launched the attack from Mandara Gau in Biu Council, about 25 kilometers away.
“They have taken over a mango plantation belonging to a former Borno State commissioner, which now serves as their hideout,” the source explained.
Another security official corroborated the account, highlighting Boko Haram’s growing use of surveillance drones.
“In the last two weeks, they’ve been deploying drones between Chibok and Damboa. On Christmas eve, they attacked another base, injuring six soldiers after conducting aerial surveillance,” the man said.
Musa declares 2025 as year to end terrorism across Nigeria
Nigeria’s military has designated 2025 as the year to decisively tackle and eradicate banditry, terrorism, and other security threats nationwide, declares Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa.
Musa spoke at the weekend, two days after former Sokoto Governor Dalhatu Bafarawa cried out over rampaging insurgency in the North West.
He made the declaration during a visit to troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) in Mangu Council of Plateau where he commended the military’s achievements in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and urged troops to redouble their efforts.
“This year, 2025, will be a decisive year for Nigeria’s security. We must make it the year we finally eradicate banditry, terrorism, and all forms of insecurity threatening our great nation,” Musa exhorted.
He praised the dedication and bravery of soldiers but stressed the importance of sustaining the momentum.
Musa inspected arms and ammunition recovered by OPSH and reviewed a guard of honour mounted in his honour.
He was joined by Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and OPSH Commander, in a push-up exercise with the troops, an exercise Musa said reflected their commitment to the fight against insurgency.
Read also:
JAMB generates N22.9b revenue from students in one year, remits N6b to federal treasury
