Intelligence Warning Came 3 Days Before Benisheikh Attack — Zulum Calls for Security Overhaul

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has revealed that security agencies received credible intelligence about the deadly attack on the 15 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, Borno State, three days before it occurred.

Zulum, who made this known on Saturday during a condolence visit to the affected community, described the incident as “deeply shocking,” especially given prior warnings of an impending assault by suspected insurgents.

The attack, which occurred on Thursday morning, targeted the military formation and surrounding communities, resulting in the death of the Brigade Commander, Brig. Gen. Braimoh Oseni, alongside other personnel.

According to the governor, the availability of advance intelligence raises serious concerns about operational readiness and response coordination within the security architecture.

“This is one of the most surprising attacks I have witnessed in recent times. There was information about this attack about three days ago,” Zulum said.

He stressed the need for urgent reforms in intelligence processing and rapid response mechanisms, particularly in conflict-prone areas across the North-East.

During the visit, Zulum also engaged local authorities, noting that confirmation from the council leadership indicated that warnings of the planned attack were indeed received but not effectively acted upon.

He called for a comprehensive review of security protocols to prevent a recurrence, warning that lapses in coordination could embolden insurgent groups operating in the region.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military, local vigilante groups, and affected communities, saying grassroots defence structures must be strengthened to avoid further territorial threats.

In a related development, Zulum extended support to the family of Lt. Col. OC Okolo, who was killed in a separate Boko Haram attack in Mandaragirau, Biu Local Government Area, on February 16, 2026.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Security, retired Brig. Gen. Abdullahi Sabi Ishaq, the governor presented a ₦50 million donation to the bereaved family during a funeral service held in Enugu State.

Zulum described the late officer as a “gallant and dedicated soldier whose sacrifice will not be forgotten,” adding that the state government remains committed to supporting families of fallen personnel.

The funeral was attended by senior military officers, representatives of the Chief of Army Staff, and members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, reflecting the continued toll of insurgency on military personnel and communities in the North-East.