Professor Babagana Zulum, the Governor of Borno State, has stated that security forces were aware of an impending terrorist assault on the 15 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, located in Kaga Local Government Area, for three days before it occurred.
The governor shared this information on Saturday while visiting the town following the fatal assault that claimed the lives of the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General O.O. Braimoh, alongside numerous soldiers and civilians.
The attack, which commenced in the early hours of Friday, targeted both the military installation and sections of the community, highlighting the persistent danger posed by insurgents in the North-east, despite ongoing counter-insurgency efforts by the Nigerian military.
Governor Zulum described the incident as both shocking and deeply concerning. He condemned the attack and called for a thorough re-evaluation of military strategies to prevent future occurrences.
"This is one of the most unexpected attacks I have witnessed lately," the governor commented. "Reliable intelligence regarding the planned attack was available for about three days, and there is a clear need to reassess our security framework to better address evolving threats."
The attack on the military formation has raised questions about the circumstances that allowed the perpetrators to succeed despite prior warnings.
During his visit, Zulum inquired from local officials about their knowledge of the intelligence. The chairman of the local government confirmed receiving such reports, leading the governor to express regret over the security lapse that enabled the attack.
Benisheheikh, situated along the crucial Maiduguri–Damaturu highway, functions as the administrative centre for Kaga Local Government Area and has historically been a significant military and logistical point in the ongoing conflict against Boko Haram.
The town has experienced multiple insurgent attacks since the conflict began, including a severe incident in 2013 that caused extensive casualties and widespread damage.
Although security has improved and military operations have led to a period of relative calm in recent years, isolated attacks persist, demonstrating the continued capability of insurgent groups in the Lake Chad Basin.
Governor Zulum stressed the necessity for improved intelligence coordination, heightened vigilance, and proactive measures to protect both military assets and the civilian populace.
He pledged the Borno State Government's continued support to the Armed Forces and other security agencies in their efforts to protect lives and property. He also reaffirmed his administration's dedication to strengthening local security mechanisms.
"We will persist in supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies. Our administration will also bolster the resilience of local vigilantes, security personnel, and affected communities to ensure that Benisheikh remains secure from Boko Haram," he declared.
The governor also conveyed his sympathies to the families of the deceased soldiers, praying for the repose of their souls and acknowledging their sacrifices as a demonstration of their patriotism and commitment to national security.
The Benisheikh attack has once again focused national attention on the precarious security situation in Nigeria's North-east region and the critical need for continuous cooperation between the military, government bodies, and local communities to combat the insurgency.
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