The Nigerian Army has opened an investigation after a classified Department of State Services (DSS) intelligence memo warning of planned attacks in Adamawa and Borno states leaked online.
The security breach has raised concerns because it exposed sensitive intelligence and caused fear among residents. Military authorities have vowed to identify whoever shared the confidential document.
Senior officers at the 232 Battalion in Yola started the investigation after the classified memo appeared in the public domain, security sources said the battalion had already received and registered the document before someone took a photo and shared it.
A security official explained that investigators believe someone inside the battalion leaked the report. The official said the Army would trace the source of the leak and hold the person accountable.
The leaked memo quickly spread across social media. As a result, many residents became worried about possible attacks.According to security officials, the DSS sent the intelligence report to alert the Army without creating public fear.
However, the leak defeated that purpose and increased anxiety in the affected communities.Military officers described the incident as sabotage. They also warned that leaking classified information could weaken national security and military operations.
The intelligence report stated that suspected Boko Haram insurgents planned coordinated attacks in Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State and Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The report claimed the attackers wanted to kidnap government officials, councillors, district heads, religious leaders and other residents. It also listed the district head of Michika and his son among possible targets.Security officials added that the insurgents had already sent surveillance teams to monitor activities before carrying out the attacks.
The DSS advised the Nigerian Army to work with forest guards and local hunters to improve security in vulnerable communities. Security agencies have continued surveillance while the Army investigates the leak and works to stop the planned attacks before they happen.
