Security Strategy Under Fire as Senate Demands Rescue of 416 Captives

Nigeria’s worsening security situation has sparked intense debate among political leaders and stakeholders, with the Senate calling for urgent action to rescue 416 citizens reportedly held by Boko Haram.

At the National Assembly, tensions rose as lawmakers demanded immediate intervention and ordered a probe into recent attacks on military formations in Borno State. Senators warned that renewed violence in the North-East could reverse years of progress against insurgency.

The chamber observed a minute of silence for 17 officers, including Brigadier-General Oseni Braimoh, killed in coordinated attacks on military bases in Monguno and Benisheikh. Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno described the assaults as deliberate and strategic attempts to weaken military operations and disrupt key routes.

Senator Ali Ndume revealed that insurgents had issued a 72-hour ultimatum demanding a N5 billion ransom for the abducted victims, heightening concern across the country.

In response, Senator Abdul Ningi urged drastic measures, including the suspension of political activities in eight states most affected by insecurity—Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi and parts of Kano.

“We must take extraordinary measures. This is no longer business as usual,” Ningi said, warning that the crisis requires urgent national focus.

Other lawmakers echoed similar concerns, highlighting the impact of persistent attacks on food security, rural communities and resettlement efforts. The Senate subsequently directed the Armed Forces to review operational strategies, strengthen intelligence, and audit military equipment, while also calling for increased humanitarian support in affected regions.

Concerns Over ‘Cycle of Failure’ in Benue

Amid renewed killings in Benue State, a senator described Nigeria’s security approach as a “cycle of failure,” marked by repeated attacks followed by short-term responses.

The lawmaker cited recent violence in Benue South, including an attack in Apa Local Government Area that left at least nine people dead, questioning why such incidents persist despite military presence.

He criticised a reactive security model and called for a more proactive, intelligence-driven strategy to prevent further bloodshed.

Gani Adams Criticises CCTV Plan

Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, faulted President Bola Tinubu’s proposal to install CCTV cameras in Jos alone, arguing that surveillance infrastructure should be deployed nationwide.

Speaking at the Oke-Ibadan Festival, Adams stressed that effective security systems depend on stable electricity, noting that Nigeria’s current power capacity remains inadequate compared to countries like South Africa and Egypt.

He urged the Federal Government to decentralise power generation and prioritise electricity reforms to support modern security infrastructure.

PRP Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) also criticised the Federal Government, accusing it of failing to prioritise security despite rising casualties.

PRP National Chairman Hakeem Baba-Ahmed alleged poor funding of the defence sector and promised that the party would address the root causes of insecurity if elected in 2027.

He emphasised the need for better leadership, improved resource allocation, and structural reforms to restore safety nationwide.

FG Insists Security Is Improving

Despite the concerns, the Federal Government maintained that the security situation is improving. Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said sustained military operations have significantly weakened Boko Haram.

He noted that a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, alongside improved military equipment, is yielding measurable results and would eventually restore lasting peace.

Fresh Attacks Leave 20 Dead

However, violence continues. Suspected Boko Haram fighters killed 20 people in coordinated attacks on communities in Borno and Adamawa states.

Local officials confirmed that 11 people were killed in Pubagu, Borno State, while nine others died in Mayo-Ladde, Adamawa State. The attackers reportedly overpowered local vigilantes, burned homes, and looted property.

Residents said the insurgents arrived on motorcycles and operated for hours without resistance strong enough to repel them.

Military Records Gains Against ISWAP

In a separate operation, troops of Operation Hadin Kai killed 30 ISWAP fighters during coordinated land and air strikes on Kaniram Island in Lake Chad.

The military also destroyed several terrorist boats, disrupting logistics and movement in the region. Officials said the operation dealt a significant blow to the group’s operational capacity, with further strikes reported in the Sambisa Forest.

Authorities say efforts are ongoing to sustain pressure on insurgents and prevent regrouping, even as calls grow louder for a more comprehensive and coordinated national security strategy.