Senator Ndume Criticizes Nigerian Military’s Capacity to Combat Boko Haram and Banditry

 

Senator Ali Mohammed Ndume, the former chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, has expressed grave concerns regarding the Nigerian military's capability to effectively tackle the ongoing threats posed by Boko Haram and banditry. Speaking at his residence in Maiduguri on October 9, Ndume emphasized that the military currently lacks both adequate weaponry and the necessary morale to confront these insurgencies.

His comments followed unverified reports on social media suggesting that his convoy was ambushed by Boko Haram militants while he was on a condolence visit to the families of victims recently attacked in the Ngoshe and Gwoza local government areas of Borno State. Ndume clarified that he was on his way to Ngoshe on October 8, accompanied by a military escort, when they received a distress call about an ambush involving Cameroonian soldiers along the Pulka-Kirawa road.

“After visiting Ngoshe, we courageously proceeded to Kirawa, despite the earlier attack. We successfully reached Kirawa, where we expressed our condolences to the families of the deceased and encouraged residents not to panic in light of the renewed attacks by Boko Haram,” he stated.

Ndume noted that the ambush specifically targeted a Cameroonian businessman, Alhaji Kadi, who was killed alongside an unidentified woman, while several others sustained injuries. He raised suspicions that some individuals might be colluding with Boko Haram, providing information to the insurgents.

Despite the challenges, Ndume acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Army and the Borno State government, led by Governor Babagana Zulum, in addressing the security situation. However, he reiterated the need for improved military resources, stating, “Our military forces and the State Government are doing well, but they have limitations. The federal government must equip and motivate our troops adequately.”

The senator revealed that during his discussions with Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, he was assured of plans to reinforce military presence in Gwoza to support farmers during the harvest season. He concluded that the military’s commitment to ending the Boko Haram threat hinges on proper training, equipment, and motivation for the troops.