13th November, 2021
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed extreme sadness over the killing of Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers by ISWAP terrorists in an attack on a military base in Borno state.
Buhari said the men paid the supreme sacrifice in a very rare display of gallantry as they tried to help their compatriots in the war against terrorists.
“Nigeria has lost brave soldiers. I salute their courage. May their souls Rest In Peace.
“General Zirkusu leaves us sad and devastated. The soldier in him will remain immortal,” said Buhari.
He urged the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Faruk Yahaya to accept his heartfelt condolences and that of the nation, and convey same to the members of the families of those martyred.
“I pray to the Almighty to give you and the bereaved families the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss,” the President added.
Hours after the Air Force bombed an ISWAP meeting killing many of their men, the rump launched attacks on Askira Uba, Mulai, Ngamdu and Buniyadi in the North-East.
The military base in Askira was also targeted by the terrorsist.
In the fierce encounter, 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 the terrorists.
However, Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers were killed, according to an announcement by Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army PR.
He said the families of the senior officer and soldiers have been contacted.