Brigadier General Musa Uba’s experience in the Sambisa Forest reveals how modern warfare extends into the realm of information, where premature reports and viral misinformation can hinder military operations and risk lives.
On November 15, 2025, Brig. Gen. Uba’s unit came under heavy attack by ISWAP insurgents along the Damboa–Biu road. Demonstrating leadership under pressure, he extricated himself and his men from the ambush and found temporary refuge deep within the Sambisa Forest. From this position, Uba reached out to military command through a WhatsApp video call, confirming that he was alive and providing his location to facilitate a rescue effort.
When Communication Becomes a Double-Edged Sword
While the general’s quick communication was critical for a timely response, the uncontrolled spread of unverified claims on social media soon distorted the narrative. False reports claiming his abduction rapidly gained traction, magnifying public concern and inadvertently alerting ISWAP cells to his location. This misinformation transformed Brig. Gen. Uba into a high-value target, referred to as a “golden fish” by insurgents and intensified their pursuit efforts.
Operational Challenges and the Spread of Misinformation
The viral misinformation imposed significant operational strain on Nigerian forces, who had to manage both the ongoing military response and the public relations crisis. With adversaries alerted and public anxiety mounting, the rescue mission grew more complex. The episode shows the delicate balance between transparency and operational security during conflict.
A Grim Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Despite initial communications assuring his safety, Brig. Gen. Uba’s phone later went silent, and efforts to locate him hit a dead end. After nearly a day of searching, he was recaptured by ISWAP and subsequently killed. His death is a sobering reminder of the real-world consequences of misinformation in warfare.
This incident calls for heightened discipline in sharing information during military operations and reinforces the critical need for verified, responsible reporting. In conflict zones, the flow of information can be as decisive as any tactical maneuver, impacting not only the course of battles but the lives of those who fight them.
