The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the establishment of an independent judicial commission of inquiry into the recent terrorist attack on a military formation in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Council of Borno State.

The call followed comments by Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, who disclosed during a sympathy visit that security forces had prior intelligence about the attack. The incident, which occurred on April 8, 2026, led to the killing of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers during an assault on the Damboa Military Base.

In a statement, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to constitute a seven-member investigative panel comprising judicial officers, civil rights representatives and security experts.

The group said the proposed panel should investigate both the immediate and underlying factors that led to the failure of the Defence Headquarters to act on available intelligence and prevent the attack. It argued that lapses in response mechanisms may have contributed to the loss of lives.

HURIWA further called for accountability within the military hierarchy, stating that officials responsible for handling intelligence should face disciplinary measures. It also urged that those found culpable be prosecuted in accordance with relevant laws, including provisions under Nigeria’s counter-terrorism framework.

The organisation expressed concern over what it described as repeated failures to avert attacks despite prior warnings, and called for a comprehensive review of security strategies to prevent future incidents.

Separately, an advocacy group, #Prayer And Support For The Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies (PSNAFSA), condemned the killing of the senior officer and other troops, describing the attack as a reflection of the risks faced by personnel engaged in counter-insurgency operations.

In a statement by its Convener, Mary Abayomi-Fatile, the group extended condolences to the families of the deceased and commended the sacrifices of military personnel.

PSNAFSA noted that while the Nigerian military has recorded successes against insurgent groups, the persistence of attacks underscores the need for renewed and coordinated efforts to address security challenges. It called on the Federal Government to identify and dismantle networks supporting terrorism, including financiers and arms supply channels.

The group also urged greater public cooperation with security agencies, emphasising the role of community intelligence in combating insurgency.

Benisheikh, located along the strategic Maiduguri–Damaturu highway, serves as the administrative headquarters of Kaga Local Council and remains a key military and logistical point in operations against insurgents in the North-East.

The town has experienced multiple attacks since the early years of the insurgency, including a major assault in 2013 that caused significant casualties and destruction. Although sustained military operations have improved security in recent years, intermittent attacks continue across parts of Borno State.