The Nigerian military has officially confirmed the tragic killing of Colonel Abdussalam Ude, a senior officer of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), following a violent attack by armed gunmen in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The incident, which has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s security community, occurred late Monday night at the officer’s residence in the Phase 5 Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, a rapidly growing suburb on the outskirts of Abuja.
According to the Defence Intelligence Agency, the attackers stormed the estate in what is believed to have been a planned kidnapping operation targeting the senior military officer.
In a statement issued by the military, authorities disclosed that the gunmen arrived heavily armed and attempted to forcefully abduct Colonel Ude from his residence.
However, the senior officer reportedly resisted the attackers, leading to a confrontation during which the assailants opened fire.
Colonel Ude sustained critical gunshot wounds during the attack and was later confirmed dead despite efforts to save his life.
The military described his death as a painful loss to Nigeria’s intelligence and defence community, noting that he served the country with courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment.
The attack also left Colonel Ude’s wife, his military driver and a security guard with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
All three victims were immediately evacuated to a medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Although military authorities have not disclosed the extent of their injuries, officials confirmed that they remain under medical care.
The Defence Intelligence Agency condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act carried out by criminal elements seeking to undermine national security.
The agency extended its condolences to Colonel Ude’s family, friends and colleagues, while praising his years of dedicated service to the nation.
Military authorities stated that security agencies have already launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
According to the statement, operatives from the Nigeria Police Force, military intelligence units and other security agencies are working together to identify those responsible for the attack.
Investigators have reportedly begun collecting evidence from the crime scene while also reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing residents within the estate.
Security operatives have equally intensified intelligence gathering in surrounding communities as part of efforts to track down the attackers.
The killing has once again raised fresh concerns over the growing activities of armed criminal groups within and around the Federal Capital Territory.
Although Abuja has traditionally been regarded as one of Nigeria’s safest cities, recent months have witnessed increasing incidents of kidnappings, armed robberies and attacks targeting residents in satellite communities.
Security experts say the latest incident demonstrates that criminal groups are becoming increasingly bold, even in locations previously considered relatively secure.
Several analysts have called for improved intelligence gathering, stronger neighbourhood surveillance and increased collaboration between security agencies to prevent similar attacks.
The death of Colonel Ude has also drawn tributes from military personnel and Nigerians across the country.
Colleagues described him as an experienced intelligence officer whose contributions to national security would be greatly missed.
Many also commended his bravery during the attack, noting that he reportedly resisted the gunmen despite the danger he faced.
Meanwhile, residents of the Kurudu area have appealed to security agencies to increase patrols and strengthen security around residential estates following the incident.
Community leaders expressed concern that criminal gangs appear to be extending their operations closer to the nation’s capital, urging authorities to act decisively before the situation worsens.
The Defence Intelligence Agency reassured Nigerians that every available resource would be deployed to ensure those responsible are identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The agency further emphasised that the military remains committed to protecting lives and defending the country’s territorial integrity despite the unfortunate loss of one of its senior officers.
As investigations continue, Nigerians are awaiting further updates from security agencies regarding the progress of the manhunt and the circumstances surrounding one of the most significant security incidents recorded in Abuja in recent weeks.
The tragic killing of Colonel Abdussalam Ude serves as another reminder of the persistent security challenges facing the country and the sacrifices made daily by members of the armed forces in the line of duty.
