President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his sadness over the death of Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three other soldiers who were killed in an ambush by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State on Saturday.
The Nigerian Army had on Saturday announced the death of the Commander of the 28 Task Force Brigade and three soldiers in a fierce encounter with the terrorists.
Buhari hailed the bravery of the fallen soldiers, stating that they paid the supreme price in the service of their country.
President Buhari said this in a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu.
According to him, the latest incident is a huge loss to the nation and the Nigerian Army which is also in a sad state as the country tackles insurgency in the Northeastern region.
“President Muhammadu Buhari says he is extremely saddened to hear about the demise of Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in a very rare display of gallantry as they tried to help their compatriots in the war against terrorists,” the statement read.
“Nigeria has lost brave soldiers. I salute their courage. May their souls rest in peace. General Zirkusu leaves us sad and devastated. The soldier in him will remain immortal.”
The President also commiserated with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Faruk Yahaya and the Nigerian Army on the unfortunate incident.
He asked the Army chief to accept his heartfelt condolences and that of the nation, and convey same to the members of the families of those martyred.
“I pray to the Almighty to give you and the bereaved families the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss,” the President added.
