The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has officially confirmed the killing of one of its most senior intelligence officers, Col. Abdulsalam Ude, who was fatally shot during an attack by unidentified gunmen at his residence in Abuja.
The killing has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s security community, with the Agency describing the incident as a painful national loss and vowing that those responsible would be tracked down and prosecuted.
In a statement issued by its Acting Assistant Director of Protocol, Capt. J.E. Oti, the DIA disclosed that the attack occurred at the officer’s residence in Phase 5, Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, Abuja.
“The Agency is deeply saddened by this unfortunate loss. The late senior officer served the nation with exceptional dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the defence and security of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement read.
While the Agency withheld operational details surrounding the incident, reports indicate that the gunmen attempted to abduct Col. Ude shortly after he returned home. The senior officer reportedly resisted the attack despite being outnumbered and was shot during the ensuing confrontation.
Security and law enforcement agencies have since launched a coordinated investigation to unravel the circumstances of the killing.
“The Agency is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the incident are thoroughly investigated. Every effort is being made to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the DIA said it would continue working with sister security agencies to ensure justice is served and the country’s security remains uncompromised.
The Agency also conveyed its condolences to the family of the late officer, his colleagues and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Military sources described Col. Ude as one of the country’s seasoned intelligence and counter-terrorism officers. An indigene of Enugu State, he was widely respected within security circles and was reportedly due for promotion to the rank of Brigadier General next year.
Throughout his career, he occupied several strategic intelligence appointments, played key roles in operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East, and represented the country on specialised security assignments in Chad and France, where he contributed to international intelligence cooperation.
This version leads with the broader national security significance of the killing rather than simply announcing the DIA’s confirmation, giving the story a stronger newspaper-style news peg and greater impact.