The Brigade Commander of the Joint Task Force in Benesheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State, Brigadier‑General O. Braimah, was killed late Thursday in a Boko Haram assault on a military formation.

Local sources confirmed that insurgents stormed the base in large numbers, sparking a fierce exchange of fire in which several militants were also killed.

“Innalillahi wa Inna’illaihin raji’un. Boko Haram has again, unfortunately, succeeded in eliminating the commanding officer of Benesheikh,” wrote Mallam Lawa Benesheikh in a social media post.

“This unfortunate incident occurred yesterday night when the insurgent stormed the military formation in numbers. May the souls of the fallen heroes rest in peace,” he added.

The chairman of Kaga Local Government Area, Hon. Zanna Ajimi, confirmed the death of the commander after visiting the base.

“Yes, we just left the military base now, and I can confirm to you that the brigade commander is among the casualties,” Ajimi said.

Meanwhile, gunmen killed at least 20 people in Shiroro LGA of Niger State, operating for hours and overwhelming security personnel. Villagers fled to Gwada, Zumba, and Galadima Kogo for safety.

Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the invasion of Bagna and Erena villages on Tuesday. “Two community guards and a driver were killed, while others sustained injuries,” he said.

In Kebbi State, suspected bandits attacked Debbe and Shabanda villages, killing dozens and setting homes ablaze.

“At about 2230hrs, suspected Mamudawa terrorist elements attacked the villages, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property,” said police spokesperson Bashir Usman.

He added: “Police tactical teams from Illo Division swiftly responded, intercepted the attackers, neutralised two of them, and recovered a Niger Republic Army uniform as well as Immigration uniforms.”

While casualty figures are still not clear, Usman confirmed reinforcements have been deployed. “Security personnel have been reinforced and are actively on ground to forestall further attacks,” he said.