A senior Nigerian Army officer, Colonel Abdussalam Ude, has been shot dead after armed assailants reportedly attempted to abduct him at his residence in Abuja, sparking fresh concerns over the safety of military personnel in the Federal Capital Territory.

The tragic incident occurred on Monday evening in the Kurudu District of Abuja shortly after the officer returned home. During the attack, his wife, driver and security guard sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

Security sources said the attackers targeted the colonel in what appeared to be a carefully planned abduction attempt. However, the officer reportedly resisted the move, leading to a violent confrontation.

Preliminary findings indicate that the gunmen intended to take him away but encountered fierce resistance.

“Investigators believe the attackers wanted to abduct him, but he fought back. Unfortunately, he lost his life in the process,” a source familiar with the ongoing investigation disclosed.

Unable to carry out the abduction, the assailants allegedly opened fire on the officer, shooting him multiple times before fleeing the scene.

The killing has sent shockwaves through military and security circles, particularly as Colonel Ude was said to be on the verge of being promoted to the rank of Brigadier General.

A native of Enugu State, the late officer built a distinguished career in military intelligence and counter-terrorism operations. He played key roles in campaigns against insurgents in the North-East and also undertook specialised international assignments in Chad and France, contributing to intelligence-sharing and security cooperation efforts.

Advertisement

Fellow officers described him as a fearless and dedicated professional whose commitment to national service earned him respect across the Armed Forces.

Security agencies have launched a full-scale investigation into the attack and intensified efforts to track down those responsible.

The incident has reignited concerns over a growing pattern of attacks targeting serving and retired military personnel in Abuja, especially officers who have held sensitive operational and intelligence positions.

The latest tragedy recalls the killing of retired Brigadier General Uwem Harold Udokwere in 2024 when gunmen invaded his residence in the Lokogoma area of Abuja. The retired officer was fatally shot while trying to protect his family, while the attackers reportedly escaped with his firearm and other valuables.

Colonel Ude is expected to be laid to rest at the Mambilla Mosque in Abuja in accordance with Islamic rites.

The killing has once again raised questions about security in the nation’s capital and the increasing boldness of criminal elements targeting high-profile individuals.