The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Paiko, Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, and several other soldiers during a fierce battle with Boko Haram insurgents in Bama, Borno State.
Army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele said troops of Operation Hadin Kai repelled a planned terrorist attack in Kashimri after receiving intelligence of an impending raid.
“The troops engaged the insurgents in a fierce gun duel, neutralising several terrorists and destroying their camps,” she stated.
Anele described the fallen soldiers as patriots who “demonstrated exceptional courage in defence of the nation.” She quoted the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, as saying their sacrifices “will never be in vain.”
She appealed to the public and media to avoid sharing graphic images of the deceased until families are notified.
The army reaffirmed its commitment to “relentlessly pursue all terrorist elements” until peace is restored across the North East and Nigeria at large.
