Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday visited Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, to commiserate with the Nigerian Army and the state government over the attack on military personnel in Benisheikh.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, led to the death of officers and soldiers, including the commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI Oseni Braimah.
Vice President Shettima, who visited on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, was received by the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar and other officials.
He said the government shares the grief of families of those who died.
“On behalf of the president, I convey our condolences to the officers and men of the armed forces and other forces for the lives lost. We grieve with the families and the nation,” he said.
Shettima said the soldiers died in service to the country and that their actions reflect the cost of security.
“These men wore the uniform for all of us. They stood to protect our communities and families,” he said.
He said the federal government will continue to support the armed forces and affected families.
“No matter how long the night is, it must give way to the light. In time, truth and justice will prevail,” he added.
The Defence Headquarters said the attack happened around 12:30 a.m. when insurgents attempted to breach the camp.
According to the military, troops responded and forced the attackers to withdraw.
The military confirmed that some soldiers were killed during the encounter and said operations are ongoing in the area.
