A serving military intelligence officer, Colonel Abdussalam A. Ude, has been shot dead after reportedly resisting an abduction attempt by armed assailants who attacked his residence in the Kurudu area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The incident occurred on Monday evening when the gunmen allegedly ambushed the senior officer shortly after he arrived home and opened fire as he stepped out of his vehicle.
According to security sources familiar with the incident, the attackers attempted to abduct the officer, but he fought back despite being heavily outnumbered.
A source involved in the preliminary investigation said the officer’s resistance thwarted the kidnap attempt, but he was fatally shot at close range during the confrontation.
“He resisted them. From what investigators have gathered, they wanted to take him away, but he fought back. Unfortunately, he paid the ultimate price,” the source said.
The attackers also reportedly opened fire on members of his household during the assault. His wife, driver and security guard sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
Colonel Ude, an indigene of Enugu State, was widely described by colleagues as a courageous and highly respected intelligence officer. He was reportedly due for promotion to the rank of Brigadier General next year.
Before his death, the officer served in several strategic military intelligence and counter-terrorism roles within the Armed Forces, participating in operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East.
He also undertook specialised international assignments, including missions in the Republic of Chad and France, where he contributed to intelligence gathering and security cooperation efforts.
Security agencies have launched investigations into the attack and are working to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The killing has reignited concerns over the growing number of attacks targeting serving and retired military personnel within the Federal Capital Territory.
The incident bears a striking resemblance to the killing of retired Brigadier General Uwem Harold Udokwere, who was murdered on June 22, 2024, after armed men invaded his residence at Sunshine Homes Estate in the Lokogoma area of Abuja.
Udokwere was reportedly stabbed to death while attempting to defend his family, while the attackers fled with his firearm and other valuables.
Security experts believe the latest attack will heighten calls for stronger security measures to protect serving and retired military officers, particularly those who have held sensitive operational and intelligence positions.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had yet to issue an official statement on the killing.
