Senator Ali Ndume has revealed that over 300 lives have been lost in 252 attacks by Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State over the past six months. This alarming situation has prompted Governor Babagana Zulum to lead a delegation to seek assistance from the military high command in Abuja.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Ndume, who was part of the delegation, explained that the governor’s visit was the result of extensive discussions with various stakeholders in Borno State. The delegation met with key military leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Chiefs of Army and Naval Staff, to address the escalating insurgency in the region.
The senator expressed deep concern over the recent surge in violence, noting that more than 100 soldiers and over 200 civilians have been killed since November of last year. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are worried because just from November last year to date, we experienced 252 attacks in Borno State.”
Ndume highlighted the dire security conditions in the state, revealing that three local governments—Gudumbari, Marche, and Abadam—are currently under Boko Haram control. He described the restrictions on movement in the region, stating that travel is nearly impossible after 6 PM, even in Southern Borno, where only limited movement is allowed under military escort.
Despite the challenges, Ndume acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, which have reportedly eliminated over 800 terrorists. However, he stressed that the military is overstretched and lacks sufficient trained and equipped personnel to effectively combat the insurgency. “If these things are to be addressed, they must be trained, they must be equipped, they must be armed, and they must be motivated,” he said.
The senator concluded by underscoring the need for increased military support, noting that the total number of personnel in the Armed Forces, including the Army, Air Force, and Navy, is less than 300,000. He called for urgent action to bolster the military’s capacity to restore security in Borno State and protect its citizens from further attacks.