Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu has been killed by the rampaging fighters of Islamic State of West African Province, ISWAP on Saturday.
The soldiers were killed while they were providing reinforcement in a counter offensive against the terrorists in Askira Uba Local Government Council of Borno State.
In a statement on the development by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brig Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu which was made available to journalists, however, said troops of Joint Task Force in the North East Operation Hadin Kai have neutralized several Islamic State of West African Province fighters in the encounter.
The statement said: “Sadly, a gallant senior officer Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice in a very rare display of gallantry as they provided reinforcement in a counter offensive against the terrorists, and successfully defended the location.
“Troops of Joint Task Force, North East Operation HADIN KAI have neutralized several Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during a recent encounter in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.”
The Army said troops supported by the Air Component of OPHK deployed five A – Jet, two A-29, two Dragon combat with which they destroyed nine Gun Trucks and One APC belonging to ISWAP.
“Sadly, a gallant senior officer Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice in a very rare display of gallantry as they provided reinforcement in a counter offensive against the terrorists, and successfully defended the location.
The.statement further noted that the Military command commiserates with with the families and relations of the fallen heroes who they said have already been contacted.
But reacting to the development, the former Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki while commiserating with their families said, the soldiers died as heroes.
He.wrote on his social media handle.saying : “My heartfelt prayers are with the families of Brigadier-General Dzarma Zirkushu and the three soldiers of the Nigerian Army’s 28 Task Force Brigade, Chibok, who were killed by terrorists while on their way to reinforce our troops at Bungulwa village, near Askira Uba.
“As we mourn the passing of these heroes who selflessly and courageously gave their lives serving our country, I pray that Almighty God will protect the families left behind and continue to strengthen our brave men and women on the frontlines.”
Meanwhile, hundreds of residents of Askira Uba town, on Saturday fled to mountains and nearby villages following an attack by ISWAP fighters.
