Suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province have reportedly attacked Nigerian Army positions in Monguno, resulting in the death of a senior military officer and four other soldiers.

Sources indicated that the incident occurred early Monday when insurgents launched an assault on troops stationed in the area, prompting a reinforcement response by the military.

On the way to support the embattled position, Colonel I.A. Muhammad was said to have been ambushed by the insurgents. He was killed alongside four soldiers during the encounter.

The killing marks another significant loss for the Nigerian Army in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria’s North-East region.

Monguno, located in Borno State, has remained a strategic military location due to its proximity to areas frequently targeted by insurgent groups.

As of the time of filing this report, military authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident. However, security sources suggest that efforts are ongoing to secure the area and prevent further attacks.

The latest development underscores the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups in the North-East, despite sustained military operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.