Colonel Abdussalam Ude, a serving Nigerian Army officer, was killed and his wife injured when gunmen attacked their home in Kurudu District, Abuja, on Monday evening. The attackers struck shortly after the colonel returned home, also shooting his driver and security guard, who survived and were taken to hospital. According to security sources, the assailants attempted to abduct Colonel Ude but fled after he resisted and was shot multiple times. His wife, driver and guard are receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.
Colonel Ude, an indigene of Enugu State, was preparing for promotion to Brigadier General and had served in key intelligence and counterterrorism roles. He participated in operations against insurgents in the North East and was deployed on international security assignments in Chad and France. Colleagues described him as courageous and highly respected within military circles. The attack has triggered a manhunt by security agencies, with investigations ongoing.
The killing echoes the 2022 attack on retired Brigadier General Uwem Harold Udokwere, who was killed by armed men at his home in Abuja's Lokogoma area. In that incident, the attackers escaped with his firearm and other valuables. Colonel Ude is to be buried at Mambilla Mosque in Abuja according to Islamic rites.
A senior intelligence officer is killed at home despite prior attacks on similar figures, raising questions about personal security protocols for high-risk military personnel. This matters to other serving and retired officers in sensitive roles who may now question the adequacy of existing protection measures.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
