NIGERIAN ARMY LAUNCHES PROBE OVER ALLEGED LEAK OF BOKO HARAM ATTACK DETAILS IN YOBE
The Nigerian Army has reportedly launched an internal investigation into suspected leaks of sensitive operational information following recent Boko Haram attacks on military bases in Yobe State.
According to military sources who spoke to SaharaReporters, the decision followed the circulation of details about coordinated insurgent assaults on two military formations in the state, which were said to have resulted in casualties among soldiers and mobile police officers.
The leaked information reportedly angered senior security officials in Abuja, prompting the immediate setting up of a probe panel to trace the source of the disclosure.
One military source said a commander received urgent calls shortly after the report surfaced, with concerns raised over how quickly details of the attack reached the media.
“They were angry that information about the attack got to the media so quickly. After that, a committee was set up to fish out soldiers working with media houses,” the source said.
The panel is reportedly mandated to investigate how operational details moved from military formations to journalists, particularly in relation to recent Boko Haram and ISWAP-related incidents.
The sources further alleged that military authorities have now tightened internal communication protocols, restricting the release of information about ongoing operations and insurgent attacks.
Another source claimed that personnel were issued directives to withhold sensitive details of attacks until after the 2027 election cycle, alleging concerns that such reports could damage the image of the military and government.
“They said such reports are damaging the image of the government and the military. The instruction was that operational failures should be managed internally,” the source alleged.
There are also growing fears within the ranks over possible disciplinary action against personnel suspected of leaking information to the press.
A separate source said commanders have issued stern warnings to soldiers regarding communication with journalists.
“The threat was serious. People are scared because they believe they can be framed or targeted at any time,” the source added.
The development comes in the aftermath of Boko Haram attacks on two military locations in Yobe State, including the Theatre Training Centre in Buniyadi and a brigade facility in Buni Gari, which were reportedly targeted in coordinated night raids.
The incidents have once again highlighted ongoing security challenges in the North-East, as well as tensions surrounding information control within Nigeria’s military operations.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board