A serving Nigerian military intelligence officer, Colonel Abdussalam A. Ude, has reportedly been shot dead after resisting an attempted abduction at his residence in the Kurudu area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on Monday evening.
- +Military intelligence officer shot dead resisting abduction in Abuja
According to security sources, the senior officer was attacked on Monday evening shortly after arriving home.
According to security sources, the senior officer was attacked on Monday evening shortly after arriving home. Armed men allegedly ambushed him as he stepped out of his vehicle in an apparent attempt to kidnap him.
Rather than surrender, Colonel Ude reportedly fought back despite being outnumbered. The attackers allegedly opened fire on him, shooting him multiple times and killing him at the scene.
The gunmen also reportedly shot members of his household during the attack, leaving his wife, driver and security guard with gunshot injuries. They were taken to hospital and are receiving treatment.
Security sources described the slain officer as a courageous and highly respected intelligence operative who stood his ground despite the danger.
Before his death, Colonel Ude served in several key military intelligence and counter-terrorism roles. He reportedly participated in operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East and also undertook international intelligence assignments in Chad and France.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are working to identify and arrest those responsible for the attack.
The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of serving and retired military personnel in Abuja, coming after the killing of retired Brigadier General Uwem Harold Udokwere in the Federal Capital Territory in 2024.
Colonel Ude is expected to be buried in Abuja in accordance with Islamic rites.
