By Paul Joseph
The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has confirmed the death of senior military intelligence officer, Colonel Abdussalam Ude, following an attack by suspected gunmen at his residence in the Phase 5 Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, Abuja.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the agency said the incident occurred at about 10:45 p.m. on Monday, 27 July, when unidentified assailants attacked the officer’s home.
The DIA disclosed that security and law enforcement agencies have launched a full-scale investigation to identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the attack.
“The Agency is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the incident are thoroughly investigated,” the statement said.
Colonel Ude’s wife, driver and security guard were reportedly injured during the assault.
The agency described the slain officer as a dedicated intelligence professional who served Nigeria with exceptional commitment and professionalism throughout his military career.
Before his death, Colonel Ude held several strategic intelligence and counter-terrorism appointments, including operational roles in the fight against insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East and international intelligence assignments in Chad and France.
A native of Enugu State, he was expected to be promoted to the rank of Brigadier General next year. He was buried on Tuesday in Abuja in accordance with Islamic rites.
The DIA extended its condolences to his family, colleagues and members of the Armed Forces, assuring that every effort would be made to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The latest attack is the third major security incident reported at the Army Housing Estate in recent years.
In January 2024, armed men invaded the Phase 2 section of the estate, abducting the wife and an in-law of a resident after firing gunshots to scare residents. The kidnappers later demanded a ₦30 million ransom for the victims’ release.
Again in April this year, suspected kidnappers attempted another attack on the estate but were repelled by security personnel during a gun battle. One suspected kidnapper was killed, while the attempted abduction was foiled.
The killing of Colonel Ude has renewed concerns over security in Abuja, particularly in satellite communities that have witnessed recurring incidents of kidnapping and violent attacks.
Security agencies have intensified operations across the Federal Capital Territory in recent months, leading to the arrest of several suspected kidnappers and the dismantling of criminal networks.
However, the latest attack underscores the continuing security challenges facing residents, including those living in military estates. Killing Of Senior Military Colonel In Abuja Gunmen Attack
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