Tributes have continued to pour in for Colonel Abdulsalam Ude of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), who was reportedly killed after resisting an attempted abduction at his residence in Abuja, with colleagues and members of the Muslim community describing him as an exceptional military officer, Qur’an teacher and mentor.

The incident occurred late on Monday at about 10:45 p.m. shortly after the senior military officer returned to his home in Phase 5 of the Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, on the outskirts of the Federal Capital Territory.

Reacting to the incident on X, Uthman Isa Tochukwu said Ude’s death was particularly devastating for Igbo Muslims, whom he said had lost a respected religious scholar and community leader.

According to him, the late colonel had memorised the entire Qur’an, possessed an exceptional command of the Arabic language and was widely regarded as one of the country’s finest intelligence officers.

Tochukwu also revealed that Ude was expected to be promoted to the rank of brigadier general next year, describing the anticipated elevation as a historic milestone for Igbo Muslims in the Nigerian military.

He further noted that the officer had received several commendations during his career for his contributions to military intelligence and national security.

Describing his personality, Tochukwu said Ude was known for his calm disposition, humility and commitment to mentoring younger Muslims, adding that his death had created a significant void within the community.

Other X users also paid tribute to the late officer. Aminu Baban Mairam described him as a rare gem whose death was a national loss, while Salahuddeen Ibn Gauss said the tragedy was not only painful for Igbo Muslims but for the wider Muslim community.

Colonel Ude’s death has continued to generate reactions as security authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported attempted abduction that claimed his life.