09
Jun
Jun
FORMER NIGERIAN ARMY CHIEF LT. GEN. BURATAI NARROWLY ESCAPES DEATH IN BOKO HARAM ATTACK
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CapitalTimesNews / 2 weeks
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- 2 min read
A recent attack in Borno State has put Nigeria’s security situation in the spotlight once again. Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, narrowly escaped death when his convoy was ambushed by suspected Boko Haram insurgents near a military base. The attackers targeted high-value equipment, including armored vehicles and tanks, some of which were destroyed or stolen. Buratai served as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff from 2015 to 2021 and was a central figure in the country’s counterinsurgency campaign. Since his retirement, he has remained an influential figure in security circles. This incident highlights the growing concerns about the country’s security landscape. Lawmaker representing Borno South, Senator Ali Ndume described the situation as a “full-blown crisis,” with insurgents moving freely and attacking military personnel and equipment. The threat from groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa is significant, and Nigeria is considered one of the countries with the highest terrorism threat levels globally. The attackers reportedly targeted high-value equipment, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAPVs), tanks, and machine guns. In some cases, the insurgents not only destroy these assets but also cart away weaponry and equipment. The security challenges in Nigeria are not limited to the North-East region. According to Senator Ndume, all six geopolitical zones are experiencing security issues, including violent conflict, banditry, and economic sabotage like oil theft. The South-West region appears to be the only relatively safe area. The attack on Buratai has sparked renewed calls for a more effective approach to addressing Nigeria’s security problems.
