News
ISWAP Terrorists Kill Army Brigade Commander
Brigadier General U. Uba, 25 Brigade Commander of Damboa, has reportedly been confirmed killed by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.
According to Zagazola Makama, before his unfortunate capture, the Brigade Commander made a video stating that he was okay, but unfortunately, after several hours, he lost orientation within the forest.
“The troops, both ground and air made several efforts to rescue the Commander who told them he was on his way to return to his base. He was unfortunately re-captured by the terrorists after viral report of his abduction went viral,” Zagazola Makama wrote on X on Monday.
Providing further details, Zagazola Makama wrote: “In the chaotic hours following the ISWAP ambush along the Burum–Kubua axis of the Damboa–Biu road, confusion spread rapidly both on the ground and across social media. Shortly after the encounter, the Brigade Commander, Brig. Gen. M. Uba, who had tactically maneuvered out of the kill zone with his men, temporarily took cover inside the forest.
From that concealed position, he established communication with the Theatre Commander, confirming his safety and proof of life in a video Watssap call. He also sent his Live location through his Wattssap which prompted ground and Air rescue mission by Air and surface troops of Operation HADIN KAI.
“However, before official channels could release accurate information, social media platforms were flooded with sensational claims. Several blogs and influencers falsely reported that ISWAP had abducted a Brigade Commander a narrative that instantly went viral due to its shock value.
What followed was an information wildfire. The more the story spread, the more the terrorists, who initially had no situational awareness about the Commander’s movement, were alerted. Media amplification effectively turned him into the most sought-after “golden fish” in the Sambisa axis, prompting ISWAP cells linked to Ba Shuwa and Abu Qudama to intensify their scramble for a target they never actually had.
“This misreporting created an unnecessary operational burden, as troops had to factor in the media-induced pressure while conducting recovery and reorganisation. It also heightened public anxiety and momentarily disrupted the flow of accurate battlefield communication.
“At the time of the report, Zagazola dismissed the viral claims as entirely false. Verified accounts confirmed that a video released by the Commander himself confirmed he was alive, unharmed, and fully in control.
“Unfortunately, Gen. Uba’s mobile phone became unreachable and he was not found at the Live location he initially provided. The Theatre Commander himself led troops to Azir and remained there for almost 24 hours searching for the Commander without any trace.
In the end, the Brigade Commander was recaptured while attempting to maneuver his way out of the terrorists infested forest.
“This incident illustrated a recurring challenge in conflict reporting: how information can endanger personnel and inadvertently assist hostile groups by providing them with operational clues.”
Recall that ISWAP terrorists had ambushed a Nigerian military convoy in a late-night attack on Friday, killing several soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, CJTF.
The commander had led troops of the 25 Brigade Task Force on a routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The insurgents, armed with sophisticated weapons, reportedly launched a coordinated strike on the convoy, leaving multiple casualties and triggering fresh fears across communities in the northeastern region.
In a development described as unprecedented, the terrorists were said to have abducted a serving Brigade Commander alongside other military personnel during the assault.
HumAngle, in its report, stated, “ISWAP fighters last night ambushed a Nigerian military convoy, killing several soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
“In an unprecedented escalation, the insurgents abducted a Brigade Commander alongside other troops.”
However, the Nigerian Army denied reports claiming that the 25 Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. U. Uba, was kidnapped by the insurgents.
Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, in a statement on Saturday, admitted that the troops came under sudden and heavy insurgent fire while returning from a successful patrol within the fringes of Sambisa Forest.
The army spokesperson said the team courageously fought through the insurgents’ ambush with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and to abandon their mission.
She said the team comprised troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
“During the encounter, two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation.
“The Army Headquarters also wishes to debunk the fake narrative going around some media platforms online alleging the abduction of the Brigade Commander.
“The general public is hereby advised to disregard the fake news regarding the incident while praying for the continuous success of our gallant servicemen and women,” she said.
President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointment of Amina Gamawa, representing Bauchi, and Abdullahi Muktar, representing Kaduna, as Commissioners to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, adding that the president forwarded the names of the nominees to the National Assembly for screening and confirmation.
The president’s letter reads in part: “Confirmation of appointment of commissioners for Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 154(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, I am pleased to forward for confirmation by the Senate the appointment of the two underlisted nominees as commissioners in the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.
“Amina Gamawa, as commissioner representing Bauchi State, and Abdullahi Muktar, commissioner representing Kaduna State.
While I hope that the Senate will consider and confirm the nominees in the usual expeditious manner, please accept, distinguished Senate President, distinguished Senators, the assurances of my highest consideration.”
Akpabio further referred the letter to the Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs. He said that the committee should report back to the Senate within the next week.
The appointment was one of the numerous appointments that President Tinubu will be making since the commencement of his administration.
Tinubu’s appointment has been criticised, and many issues raised have been addressed.
Nigerians have started reacting to the announcement by the Senate president during Tuesday’s plenary.
Below are some of their reactions:
Adetunji Adewolu called for fairness in the sharing formula: “New names at the revenue table. Nigerians will be watching closely to see if the slices of the national cake get any fairer. #OmoOlofaIna.”
Dan_Baba criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu: “Every day, we keep seeing appointments without a positive impact on the masses. We will continue praying while we patiently wait for 2027.”
Pepperito congratulated the appointee, describing her as a loyal party member: “Once again, to our party lover, stalwart and servant, @gamawa_amina, congratulations. This is one appointment that thoroughly sweetened my belle.”
Idris Garba explained what should be the focus of the government: “The focus should be how revenue will be better managed for the benefit of citizens.”
Oma Ann criticised the administration of President Tinubu: “Positions filled every day, but no real economic relief. Wetin dey happen.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the country will never yield to forces seeking to destabilise its peace, unity, and sovereignty.
The President spoke while hosting religious and traditional leaders for an interfaith breaking of the fast at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
A statement shared via X, by Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu acknowledged the critical role of religious and traditional figures in fostering peace and moral guidance across communities.
“Yes, we are challenged; the terrorists are very desperate now because they are getting barraged and defeated, they leave trails of blood in their wake.
But I assure you of one thing: Nigeria will never surrender. We are not discouraged. We are going to win and win well,” he said.
The President emphasised that the government remains committed to protecting citizens and securing the nation from insurgents and other threats to stability.
President Tinubu also reflected on the economic progress since assuming office, highlighting measures to stabilise public finances and support pensioners.
“I am just grateful, one person among millions, that I have been given the opportunity to serve. And all I can do is promise that I will continue to be faithful in discharging my duty. I can report that the economy has turned the corner. It is getting better. Pensioners are getting their relief gradually. We have saved Nigeria from bankruptcy,” he stated.
He added that his administration has ensured that no governor struggles to pay salaries and is focused on long-term development in sectors such as agriculture and education to leave a lasting legacy.
In his remarks, Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, praised President Tinubu for bringing together leaders of Nigeria’s major religions, describing the occasion as a symbol of national unity.
He prayed for guidance, protection, peaceful coexistence, and the President’s success. Representing the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe underscored the importance of faith leaders in promoting harmony.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), through Archbishop Daniel Okoh, assured President Tinubu of the church’s continued support for his government’s efforts to transform the economy and strengthen security.
Traditional rulers and religious leaders from all six geopolitical zones attended the event, reinforcing the administration’s message of national unity, peace, and resilience.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed that it is “shocked and deeply saddened” by the death of “a highly respected” party chieftain, Chamberlain Dunkwu.
Dunkwu, president of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, tragically passed away after collapsing at his residence on Saturday morning, March 7, 2026. His sudden death came just hours before he was scheduled to attend the “Swim to the Future” programme, a key talent discovery event he had helped organise at the National Stadium Swimming Pool (Package B) in Abuja.
According to Leadership, sources close to the family confirmed that efforts to revive Dunkwu were unsuccessful.
Apart from leading the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Dunkwu also served as deputy chief of staff (legislative) to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. Previously, he was a special adviser on members’ affairs to the Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.
In its condolence message, signed by national spokesperson Felix Morka, the APC described Dunkwu as “an energetic, selfless, and loyal party man who contributed enormously to building and strengthening the party in his native Ika federal constituency, Delta State, and beyond.”
The APC’s statement reads on X: “Dr. Dunkwu lived a vibrant life of service and philanthropy that touched many within and beyond his homeland. His exit has created a yawning void that will be difficult to fill. Our Party prays God to grant his immediate family the fortitude to bear this huge loss. And may He comfort all members of the APC family in Ika Federal Constituency, Delta State and around the country at this difficult time.”
It added: “Amazing Grace! Amazing Grace! May His Grace lead you home, and may it be true for you as proclaimed in the old hymnal: “To that old rugged cross I will ever be true, its shame and reproach gladly bear; then he’ll call me someday to my home far away, where his glory forever I’ll share.” Fare thee well, dear compatriot!”
ABUJA, FCT
MARCH 8, 2026
PRESS STATEMENT
APC MOURNS DR. CHAMBERLAIN DUNKWU
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is shocked and deeply saddened by the death of a highly respected Party Chieftain, Dr. Chamberlain Dunkwu, at 54.
The late Dr. Dunkwu was an energetic, selfless… pic.twitter.com/dA8I3XiEAc
— APC Nigeria (@OfficialAPCNg) March 8, 2026
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