A serving officer of the Nigerian Army, Colonel Abdussalam Ude, was reportedly killed after gunmen attacked his residence in the Kurudu area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
According to sources, the attack occurred on Monday evening shortly after the senior military officer returned home from work.
The assailants were said to have attempted to abduct the officer or members of his family before opening fire during the incident. Colonel Ude reportedly died from gunshot wounds, while his wife, driver and security guard sustained injuries.
The injured victims were rushed to a hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment.
Although the exact circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, security sources said investigations are underway to determine the motive and identify those behind the assault.
Military and security authorities have reportedly launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Colonel Ude, who was said to be from Enugu State, served in the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps and held several strategic intelligence and counter-terrorism positions during his career.
He was reportedly involved in operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East and also served on international assignments, including deployments to the Republic of Chad and France, where he contributed to intelligence and security cooperation.
Colleagues described the late officer as a committed and highly professional soldier who dedicated his career to national security.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had not issued an official statement on the incident. More details are expected as investigations continue.
Credit: Vanguard