In the early hours of April 24, 2023, the Nigerian troops of 21 Armored Brigade Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) Bama, successfully repelled an attack by the Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorists on the outskirts of Borno State. This was disclosed by a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, Zagazola Makama, who confirmed that the terrorists had stormed the town from the Sambisa axis through Yarimari Gana in a bid to cause chaos.
The troops, however, responded quickly by deploying forces to the scene of the attack, engaging the terrorists at the back of the Bama IDP camp, and forcing them to retreat. It is worth noting that the 21-Armored Brigade, Bama, in collaboration with the 199 Special Forces Battalion and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), had between April 17th to 20th, 2023, destroyed 12 camps of the Boko Haram, killed 35 terrorists, and captured one Alhaji Baana in Bama Local Government Area.
Sadly, ISWAP carried out another attack on a military outpost in Pulka, resulting in the loss of one soldier who paid the ultimate price. The incident occurred in the aftermath of the successful repulsion of the terrorist attack in Bama.
The Nigerian army continues to combat terrorism in the region, and the recent events in Bama and Pulka show the need for increased vigilance and military action to keep terrorists at bay. The military is urging the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
In conclusion, the bravery and swift action of the Nigerian troops in Bama prevented what could have been a devastating attack by ISWAP terrorists. While the loss of a soldier in Pulka is regrettable, it underscores the continued need for vigilance and determination in the fight against terrorism in the country.