Nigerian Senator Condemns Boko Haram Attack, Calls for Increased Military Support
Damboa, Nigeria – Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has expressed his condolences following a recent attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Sabon Gari village, Borno State, which resulted in the deaths of soldiers, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and civilians. The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria’s Northeast region, a conflict that has spanned over 16 years and claimed tens of thousands of lives.
The incident, which occurred earlier this week, saw dozens of ISWAP terrorists neutralized by Nigerian troops, according to a statement released Thursday by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK). However, the confrontation came at a cost, with both security forces and civilians caught in the crossfire.
“Let me commiserate with the troops of Theatre Command North East Joint Task Force ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ (OPHK), members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and families of those killed,” Senator Ndume stated in a condolence message issued Friday. He also extended his sympathies to the communities of Harang and surrounding areas in the Hawul local government area, where a separate attack resulted in one death and property destruction.
The majority of the civilian casualties in Sabon Gari were identified as Biu indigenes working as casual laborers on the Wajiroko bridge, a vital infrastructure project previously damaged by terrorist activity. This highlights the vulnerability of civilian populations engaged in reconstruction efforts in the conflict zone.
Ndume, a former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, urged the military to remain resolute in its fight against terrorism despite these setbacks. He praised the ongoing clearance operations in Sambisa Forests, Timbuktu Triangle, and the Mandara Mountains, acknowledging the sacrifices made by Governor Babagana Zulum and security agencies.
“I appreciate Governor Babagana Zulum, the troops and other security agencies for their unwavering sacrifices,” Ndume said. “Decisive blows have been dealt to Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and their Commanders in the last month.”
The Senator reiterated his call for increased investment in military technology, specifically requesting fighter jets and drones to enhance the capabilities of security forces. He also advocated for the prompt payment of benefits to the families of fallen soldiers and security personnel.
“Let me reiterate my calls on the Federal government to equip our security agencies with fighter jets, drones and other sophisticated warfare technologies,” Ndume explained. “I am also advocating for immediate payment of all entitlements to the families of deceased soldiers.”
Ndume also emphasized the importance of community involvement in the fight against terrorism, urging residents of Borno and the wider North East region to share timely information with security agencies. He stressed that combating terrorism requires a collaborative effort, extending beyond the government and security forces.
The ongoing conflict in Northeast Nigeria has created a complex humanitarian crisis, with over 2.2 million people displaced and millions more in need of assistance, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The region faces significant challenges including food insecurity, limited access to healthcare, and widespread poverty.
The Nigerian government has been working with international partners to address the root causes of the conflict and provide support to affected communities. However, the recent attacks serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram and ISWAP, and the urgent need for a comprehensive and sustained response.
Vanguard News originally reported this story.
