Late Col.Abdusalam Ude
The killing of a senior Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) officer in the nation’s capital has triggered fresh concerns over the growing audacity of armed criminals, with security agencies launching an intensive manhunt for the assailants.
The victim, Col. Abdulsalam Ude, a highly regarded military intelligence officer with years of experience in counter-terrorism and strategic operations, was fatally shot during an attack at his residence in Phase 5, Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, Abuja.
Confirming the incident, the DIA described the officer’s death as a profound loss to the nation’s intelligence community and pledged that those behind the attack would be brought to justice.
In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director of Protocol, Capt. J.E. Oti, the Agency said Col. Ude served Nigeria with “exceptional dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment” to national defence and security.
Although the DIA did not disclose the circumstances surrounding the attack, reports indicated that the gunmen attempted to abduct the senior officer shortly after he arrived home. He reportedly resisted the attackers despite being heavily outnumbered before he was shot.
The Agency said security and law enforcement authorities had commenced a comprehensive investigation into the incident and were working to identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
“The Agency is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the incident are thoroughly investigated,” the statement said.
It added that the DIA remained steadfast in its constitutional responsibility to safeguard Nigeria’s security and would continue collaborating with other security agencies to ensure justice is served.
The Agency also extended its condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues of the deceased officer and members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Col. Ude, an indigene of Enugu State, was widely respected within military intelligence circles and was reportedly due for promotion to the rank of Brigadier General next year.
During a distinguished military career, he held several sensitive intelligence and counter-terrorism appointments, participated in major operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East and undertook specialised international assignments in Chad and France, where he contributed to intelligence-sharing and regional security cooperation.