Abuja — A senior Nigerian Army intelligence officer, Colonel Abdussalam Ude, was reportedly shot dead on Monday evening after resisting an attempted abduction by armed gunmen in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The tragic incident is said to have occurred at the officer’s residence in the Kurudu area of the city, where the assailants allegedly stormed the premises in a bid to kidnap him.
Reports said Colonel Ude fiercely resisted the attackers, leading to a violent confrontation during which he sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite efforts to save his life, the senior military officer later succumbed to his injuries.
The attack, sources said also left three other persons wounded, including the colonel’s wife, his driver, and a security guard attached to the residence.
They were reportedly rushed to a medical facility for treatment, while security operatives moved swiftly to secure the area.
Sources closed to the slain senior intelligence military officer described him as a highly respected operative with a distinguished service record. He was said to have been on course for promotion to the rank of Brigadier-General next year.
The killing has sparked renewed concerns over insecurity and the growing audacity of criminal elements operating within and around the nation’s capital.
Following the incident, security agencies launched a coordinated manhunt for the attackers, deploying intelligence and tactical assets to track down those responsible for the assault.
Authorities have yet to make any arrests, but investigations are ongoing, as security officials have vowed to ensure that the perpetrators are identified, apprehended and brought to justice.
The Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement on the incident as of press time. However, the death of the senior officer has drawn sympathy from colleagues and residents, who described the attack as a disturbing reminder of the security challenges confronting the country.
Colonel Ude’s death adds to growing concerns over kidnappings and violent crimes in parts of the country, despite ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb criminal activities.
