The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has confirmed the death of one of its senior intelligence officers, Colonel Abdulsalam Ude, following an attack by unidentified gunmen at his residence in Phase 5, Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, Abuja.
In a statement issued by the Agency’s Acting Assistant Director of Protocol, Captain J.E. Oti, the DIA described the officer as a dedicated professional who served Nigeria with exceptional commitment to national security.
According to reports, the attackers allegedly attempted to abduct Col. Ude shortly after he arrived home. He reportedly resisted the gunmen despite being outnumbered and was fatally shot during the encounter.
The DIA said security and law enforcement agencies have launched a full investigation into the incident and are working to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible.
The Agency expressed condolences to Col. Ude’s family, colleagues, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security and ensuring justice is served.
Col. Ude, an indigene of Enugu State, was reportedly due for promotion to Brigadier General next year. During his career, he held several strategic positions in military intelligence and counter-terrorism, participated in operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East, and served on international intelligence assignments in Chad and France.
