The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to rescue 416 women, children, and elderly persons who have been held captive by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State since March 30 2026.
The call comes amid renewed concerns over escalating attacks on military formations in the North-East, which have resulted in the deaths of 17 military personnel, including Brigadier General Oseni Braimoh.
Lawmakers also demanded a comprehensive investigation into the attacks, as well as allegations of civilian casualties during military operations.
The development follows the release of a video by Boko Haram terrorists, in which they threatened the Nigerian government against attempting a forceful rescue of the abducted victims.
The insurgents warned that failure to meet their demands within 72 hours could lead to the victims being dispersed
The Senate’s resolutions were prompted by a motion titled “Urgent Need to Curb Attacks on Military Formations by Boko Haram Insurgents,” sponsored by Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) and co-sponsored by Senators Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) and Kaka Lawan (APC, Borno Central).
Leading debate on the motion, Senator Monguno drew attention to recent coordinated attacks on military formations in Monguno and Benisheikh, which are key locations in Borno State resulting in significant casualties.
Those killed include Brigadier General Oseni Braimoh, Colonel Mohammed Isya, Captain A.M. Esmat, Lieutenant Kelvin Festus, and 13 others.
Senator Monguno expressed concern that the resurgence of insurgent attacks is eroding gains recorded in counter-insurgency efforts, while posing serious threats to national security, food security, and the resettlement of internally displaced persons.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Ali Ndume raised alarm over the plight of the abducted victims, noting that the insurgents had issued fresh threats to disperse them if urgent action is not taken.
He called on both the National Assembly and the Presidency to act swiftly to secure their release.
Also speaking, Senator Diket Plang (APC, Plateau Central) said the continued attacks on military personnel are instilling fear among Nigerians, warning that the killing of senior officers and security personnel sends a dangerous signal across the country.
He cited a similar attack in Kanam, Plateau State, on March 13, where a military captain, three soldiers, and eight vigilantes were killed in an ambush.
In his contribution, Senator Abdul Ningi urged the Federal Government to take more drastic measures, including the possible suspension of political activities in frontline states such as Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, and parts of Kano, until significant progress is made in addressing insecurity.
In its resolutions, the Senate strongly condemned the continued attacks by Boko Haram on military formations and observed a minute of silence in honour of fallen soldiers.
The lawmakers also called on the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs to conduct a comprehensive operational and logistical audit of the affected military formations, particularly in Monguno and Benisheikh, to identify and address gaps in equipment and operational strategy.
The Senate further urged the Armed Forces to strengthen adherence to rules of engagement and international humanitarian law, ensure adequate training on civilian protection, and thoroughly investigate allegations of harm on civilians during military operations.
Additionally, local communities were encouraged to support security agencies with timely intelligence to combat insurgent activities.
The Senate also commended troops of Operation Hadin Kai for their bravery and called on the Federal Government to prioritize their welfare, provide adequate equipment, and boost their morale in the ongoing fight against insurgency.
e n(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
