Boko Haram Attack: Nigerian Army Commanding Officer Umar Farouq Killed in Borno
By Erewunmi Peace
A commanding officer of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Umar Farouq, has reportedly been killed during a terrorist attack in Borno State.
According to reports from security sources, the officer died after Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters launched an attack on a military base in Kukawa Local Government Area of the state.
The insurgents were said to have stormed the military position in large numbers, engaging troops in a fierce gun battle. During the confrontation, Lieutenant Colonel Farouq sustained serious injuries.
He was later evacuated for medical treatment but reportedly died from his wounds.
Sources also indicated that several soldiers were killed and others injured during the attack, while the militants allegedly destroyed parts of the military facility and carted away weapons and equipment.
Security operations are said to be ongoing in the area as troops continue efforts to repel further attacks and restore stability.
The incident highlights the continued security challenges in Nigeria’s North-East region, where Boko Haram and its splinter faction, ISWAP, have carried out insurgent activities for more than a decade.
Authorities are yet to release a detailed official statement regarding the attack, but military operations against insurgents in the region are expected to intensify following the incident.
