The 25 Task Force Brigade of the Nigerian Army has seen a change in its leadership, even as uncertainty continues to swirl over the fate of its former commander, Brigadier-General M. Uba, following a deadly ambush in Borno State.
Militants from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have claimed that they killed Brig Gen. Uba after capturing him during an ambush near Wajiroko, Borno State.
The claim was broadcast through the IS-affiliated Amaq News Agency.
On Saturday, the Nigerian Army strongly rejected claims of the general's capture.
In a statement, the Army described reports of his abduction or death as “fake narratives” and urged the public to disregard them.
The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, said the troops “fought through the insurgents’ ambush … forcing them to withdraw” and that the commander was not taken.
In the ambush, two soldiers and two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) were confirmed killed.
However, new information emerged on Monday that the general may have been captured after the first incident and killed by ISWAP.
Intel Footage, Distress Call, and Air Interventions
Security sources have provided additional—but unverified—intelligence. According to those sources:
-
Brig Gen. Uba allegedly recorded a distress video during last week's encounter, sharing his live location.
-
He is said to have made a distress call, indicating he was isolated in a dangerous area.
-
There are reports that the Nigerian Air Force intervened, conducting operations in the area in response to his call.
These accounts have not been officially confirmed by the military.
Amid the confusion over Uba’s status, a new Theater Commander assumed charge over the 25 Task Force Brigade on Monday.
The reasons behind this change in leadership have not been publicly explained by the Nigerian Army, and no detailed announcement or press release has yet confirmed the transition.
