How military obtained credible intelligence on Benisheikh attack three days before it occurred — Gov. Zulum
Babagana Umara Zulum, the governor of Borno State, has strongly condemned the recent attack on the 15 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, revealing that troops had received intelligence about a potential terrorist assault three days before the brutal attack that claimed the lives of military personnel.
Zulum made this known on Saturday during a sympathy visit to Benisheikh in Borno State, where he expressed condolences over the death of Brigade Commander Brigadier General O.O. Braimoh and several others.
The attack, which targeted both the military formation and the town, took place on Friday morning, according to available reports.
Zulum disclosed that intelligence reports had earlier indicated a possible attack by suspected insurgents on the formation, raising concerns over how the situation was handled despite prior warnings.
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Consequently, the governor called on the military to review its security architecture to better address emerging threats within its areas of responsibility.
“This is one of the most surprising attacks that I have witnessed in recent times,” Zulum said, stressing the need for a reassessment of existing security protocols.
He emphasised that credible intelligence about the impending attack had been available for approximately three days before the assault was carried out.
During the visit, the governor questioned local leadership about their awareness of the intelligence reports, and the chairman confirmed that such information had indeed been received.
Zulum lamented what he described as a lapse that allowed the attack to proceed despite the warning, underscoring the need for more effective coordination and response mechanisms.
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The governor, however, assured troops of the state government’s continued support in their efforts to protect lives and property across the region.
He added that his administration would take additional steps to strengthen the resilience of local vigilantes, security personnel, and affected communities, to ensure that Benisheikh does not fall to Boko Haram insurgents.
