Intelligence failure: Zulum says troops ignored 3-day warning before Benisheikh attack

…Brigade commander, soldiers killed in surprise assault

…The Government calls for an urgent review of military strategy

Daud Olatunji

Governor Babagana Zulum has raised serious concerns over an apparent intelligence failure following the deadly attack on a military formation in Benisheikh, Borno state, revealing that troops had been given advance warning of the assault three days before it took place.

Zulum revealed this on Saturday during a solidarity visit to the city, where he condemned the attack on the 15th Task Force Brigade, which resulted in the death of the brigade commander, Brigadier General OO Braimoh, and several soldiers.

The governor described the incident as shocking and avoidable, stressing that reliable information indicating an imminent attack by suspected insurgents had been received well in advance but had not been effectively used to prevent the tragedy.

“This is one of the most astonishing attacks I have witnessed in recent times,” Zulum said.

“There was information about this attack about three days ago. It is necessary for the army to review its strategies and strengthen its response mechanisms.”

The assault, which also hit parts of the Benisheikh community, sparked fresh concerns about coordination gaps within the security architecture in the northeast, where rebel attacks have continued despite ongoing military operations.

The results of the visit showed that local authorities were also aware of the intelligence reports before the attack.

The prime minister reportedly confirmed he had received prior warnings, further exacerbating concerns about why proactive measures were not taken.

Zulum underlined the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of security structures, urging the military to re-evaluate its intelligence processing and operational response to emerging threats.

He, however, assured the troops of continued support from the state government, pledging to strengthen collaboration with security agencies and increase assistance to local vigilante groups.

The governor added that efforts will be intensified to strengthen the resilience of affected communities and prevent Benisheikh from falling into the hands of insurgents.

The latest incident highlights persistent vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s counterinsurgency operations, particularly in Borno State, widely seen as the epicenter of the country’s prolonged insurgency crisis.

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