The Senate has called on the Nigerian military to urgently redeploy personnel and advanced equipment to Borno and Yobe states following a fresh wave of attacks by Boko Haram insurgents in the region.
The resolution came in response to renewed violence in the North-East, including the killing of over a dozen soldiers in Marte town, Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State, on Monday, May 12.
The insurgents also launched another assault early Tuesday on Gajiram, the headquarters of Nganzai Local Government Area.
The Senate passed the resolution following a motion, sponsored by the Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Munguno, drawing attention to the resurgence of terrorist activities in an area that had previously enjoyed relative peace.
Munguno recalled that while two-thirds of Borno’s local government areas were once under Boko Haram control, coordinated efforts by the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Civilian Joint Task Force had successfully reclaimed most of the territories.
However, he noted that the relative stability had prompted the military to shift tactical command to the North-West, where troops are currently tackling kidnapping and banditry.
The lawmaker expressed deep concern over the terrorists’ evolving tactics, including the use of modern technology such as drones and the increasing deployment of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which he said had led to rising civilian and military casualties and disrupted key transportation routes in the region.
“The recent attacks highlight the need for the military to reassess its current deployment strategy and refocus on the North-East,” Munguno stated.
Following deliberations, the Senate resolved to: “Urge the military high command to immediately redeploy sufficient troops to the North-East.
“Ensure that the deployed personnel are equipped with modern technologies to match the terrorists’ growing capabilities.
“Mandate its committees on Army and Air Force to monitor and ensure compliance with the resolution.”
He emphasized that renewed military presence and tactical upgrades were essential to preventing further escalation and protecting vulnerable communities in the affected areas.
