House of Representatives Raises Alarm Over Escalating Boko Haram Attacks on Military Bases
The House of Representatives has issued a stark warning about the increasing frequency of Boko Haram attacks on military formations across Nigeria, expressing grave concerns over the looting of military equipment valued at trillions of naira. Lawmakers cautioned that inaction could severely undermine public trust in the government and exacerbate the nation’s security crisis.
Debate on Military Vulnerabilities
During Monday’s plenary session, Rep. Ahmed Satomi (APC, Borno) presented a motion highlighting recent security breaches, including a fire outbreak at the 127 Battalion armoury in Giwa Barracks, Maiduguri, and coordinated assaults on military installations in Borno and Yobe States.
Lawmakers Express Grave Concerns
Rep. Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau) voiced alarm at the scale of weapons falling into insurgent hands despite substantial security sector funding. “The images from Giwa Barracks were deeply disturbing,” Gagdi stated. “If this continues, citizens may lose faith in our institutions.”
The lawmaker called for concrete action beyond symbolic motions, urging public hearings with military leadership. “We must demand accountability from security agencies openly,” he emphasized, warning of potential anarchy if the situation persists.
Insurgents Gaining Strength
Rep. Satomi described the attacks as a direct threat to national stability, noting that weakened military defenses leave civilian populations vulnerable. Other legislators shared disturbing accounts:
- Rep. Ahmed Jaha (APC, Borno): Revealed Boko Haram’s use of weaponized drones against military and civilian targets
- Rep. Zainab Gimba (APC, Borno): Reported a deadly attack on a multinational joint task force base in Kala Balge
- Rep. Lawan Shettima Ali (APC, Yobe): Suggested possible foreign support for insurgents’ growing arsenal
Calls for Presidential Action
The House urged President Bola Tinubu to implement immediate measures to restore public confidence, including holding security leaders accountable for operational failures. Lawmakers warned that without urgent intervention, growing public disillusionment could threaten Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Credit: The Herald