By Steven Atokolo
The Senate has expressed urgent concern over the renewed wave of Boko Haram attacks targeting military personnel and formations in Borno State, describing the situation as a major threat to national security and humanitarian efforts in the North-East.
The concern followed a motion moved by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno (Borno North) and co-sponsored by Senators Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) and Shehu Kaka Lawan (Borno Central). The motion drew attention to recent assaults on military bases that resulted in casualties, including Brigadier General Oseni Braimoh, Colonel Mohammed Isya, Captain A.M. Esmat, Lieutenant Kelvin Festus, and 13 others.
Lawmakers noted with serious concern that repeated attacks on Monguno, a key garrison town, and Benisheikh, an important location along the Damaturu–Maiduguri highway, suggest a calculated effort by insurgents to weaken military operations and disrupt humanitarian and commercial activities.
The Senate acknowledged the continued sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in combating insurgency, noting that several brave officers and soldiers have lost their lives in the latest attacks.
It warned that the renewed assaults on military formations and civilian communities could reverse the progress made in counter-insurgency operations, while also threatening national security, food supply, and the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno State.
The lawmakers further emphasized that safeguarding civilians is a core responsibility under both national and international humanitarian laws, and is vital for sustaining public confidence and cooperation in the fight against insurgency.
Consequently, the Senate strongly condemned the persistent attacks by Boko Haram on military formations in affected communities.
It also urged the Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs to carry out a thorough operational and logistical review of the incidents in Benisheikh and other impacted areas.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the military personnel and civilians who lost their lives in the attacks.
