The Defence Headquarters on Thursday reacted to an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, terrorists on a military base in Benisheikh, Borno State.

However, the Defence Headquarters was silent on reports that the ISWAP terrorists killed Brig.-Gen. O. O. Braimah, a Brigade Commander of the Joint Task Force in Benesheikh, during the attack.

The DHQ, in a statement, said troops of Operation Hadin Kai repelled a coordinated terrorist attack on a military base in Benisheikh, Borno State.

It said the attack occurred around 12:30 am on Thursday when insurgents attempted to breach the Headquarters of the 29 Task Force Brigade.

According to the military, troops responded with “superior firepower” and forced the attackers to retreat, abandoning the operation.

The DHQ described the assault as a sign of desperation by terrorist groups following recent losses in ongoing military operations in the North-East.

The military confirmed that some soldiers were killed during the encounter. It said the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has paid tribute to the fallen personnel and extended condolences to their families.

The DHQ said further details would be released after families of the deceased have been formally notified.

It also urged the public to disregard unverified reports and misinformation circulating on social media.

Meanwhile, clearance operations are ongoing in the area to track fleeing insurgents and prevent them from regrouping.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations against terrorism and called on citizens to support security agencies with credible information.