The late Commander of the Army 28 Task Force Brigade, Chibok was said to be on his way to Askira for reinforcement when he ran into an ambush.
Nigerians on social media have lambasted Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari (Media & Publicity) for allegedly mocking the late Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu.
SaharaReporters had reported that the senior officer was killed by ISWAP terrorists during an ambush at Bulguma, a few kilometres from Askira, Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The late Commander of the Army 28 Task Force Brigade, Chibok was said to be on his way to Askira for reinforcement when he ran into an ambush.
However, ISWAP in a statement released on Sunday night confirmed the attack, claiming 17 soldiers were killed.
According to the group, 13 soldiers were killed when its fighters attacked troops at a military base in Askira town while four others including Brigadier General Zirkus were killed during an ambush at Bulguma, a few kilometres from Askira.
ISWAP added that it razed down the army camp, a four-wheel vehicle and another armoured vehicle parked inside the base.[story_link align="left"]101188[/story_link]
The militants also said another vehicle, a tank, different weapons, and ammunition were captured during the incident.
Posting the picture of Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and the late senior military on Facebook on Monday, Shehu said, “This was on the 10/7/21 when the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha addressed the people of his community after a Boko Haram attack that left over 20 people dead. He is seen in this picture, introducing the late Gen Kennedy Zirkushu who equally hailed from the same village.”
Reacting to the post, some Nigerians blasted the presidential spokesperson for ‘mocking’ the deceased.
“What's the import of this post now - a condolence message or eulogy? This regime isn't a serious or caring government,” Alaafin Olododo wrote.
Another Facebook user, Austin Emy said, “Please, can someone help to explain the import of this message? Boko Haram killed 20 people, the General introduced also killed by the same Boko Haram.
“This message is to the advantage of which group? May the souls of the innocent people rest in peace. That's the price of the claim that Boko Haram has been defeated. Congratulations"
Raphael Eyarefe posted, “I have said it before, I say it again... This government of #Buhari with you Garba Shehu in it as S.A is the worst Nigeria has ever seen. Okay, what's the essence of this post naa? Are you telling and showing us the reason why the Brigadier General was murdered? Why is it that the soldiers aren't able to finish off these terrorists? If it's the South-South or South-East, all the soldiers in the Nigerian army would have been showing their selves by now. Nonsense!.”
Zannah Wakil posted, “Why are you trying to tell Nigerians? Are you trying to tell us the same terrorists that killed 20 people succeeded in killing Gen. Instead of General succeed on them?”
Okechuckwu Okeke wrote, “He introduced him to Boko Haram and they killed him barely 4months after. Na just small sense you people need to overcome. No Southern General will sit and allow himself to be introduced to Terrorists in the name of exhibition because we are wise.”