Senate Demands Probe, Orders Strategic Review After Fresh Boko Haram Attacks in Borno

The Senate has directed Nigeria’s top military leadership to immediately undertake a comprehensive audit of operations following renewed Boko Haram attacks on key military bases in Benisheikh and Monguno, Borno State.

The directive, issued during plenary on Wednesday, tasks the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and other service chiefs with conducting a thorough review of operational strategies, logistics, and equipment deployment linked to the recent assaults.

Lawmakers said the audit must examine the circumstances that led to the attacks, assess the adequacy of military hardware, and ensure strict compliance with established rules of engagement. The Armed Forces were also urged to urgently correct any deficiencies identified in the process.

The Senate further called for an investigation into reported civilian casualties during military operations, stressing the need for transparency, accountability, and stronger safeguards to protect non-combatants.

The resolutions followed a motion moved by Senator Tahir Monguno (Borno North), who warned of a disturbing escalation in attacks on military formations by insurgents in the North-East.

He expressed deep concern over the loss of personnel in the latest incidents, including senior officers Brigadier General Oseni Braimoh, Colonel Mohammed Isya, Captain A.M. Esmat, and Lieutenant Kelvin Festus alongside 13 other soldiers.

Describing Monguno as a vital garrison town and Benisheikh as a strategic route along the Damaturu–Maiduguri highway, the lawmaker said the repeated assaults point to a coordinated effort to weaken military presence and disrupt humanitarian and economic activities in the region.

The Senate acknowledged the continued sacrifices of Nigerian troops in the counter-insurgency fight but warned that the resurgence of attacks poses significant risks to national security, food production, and ongoing resettlement programmes for internally displaced persons.

It emphasised that civilian protection remains a fundamental responsibility under both domestic and international humanitarian law, noting that public trust in military operations depends heavily on adherence to these standards.

In a show of respect, lawmakers observed a minute of silence for fallen soldiers and victims of the attacks, while strongly condemning the persistent violence by Boko Haram insurgents.

The chamber also urged the military to strengthen adherence to rules of engagement through enhanced training, particularly in the area of civilian protection.

Meanwhile, some senators, including Abdul Ningi, advocated for the temporary suspension of political activities in conflict-affected states until security conditions improve, citing the need to prioritise stability and safety.