Senate urges FG to rescue 416 Boko Haram captives in Borno

The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of 416 women, children, and elderly persons held by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.

 

The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Tahir Monguno and co-sponsored by Ali Ndume and Kaka Lawan, raising concerns over renewed attacks on military formations and threats against the captives.

 

Leading the debate, Monguno warned that the resurgence of insurgent activities in areas such as Monguno and Benisheikh is undermining gains in counter-insurgency operations and posing serious risks to national security.

 

Ndume, in his contribution, expressed concern over the fate of the abducted victims, noting that insurgents had issued fresh threats to disperse them if urgent action is not taken.

 

Other lawmakers, including Diket Plang and Abdul Ningi, warned that continued attacks on military personnel are heightening fear among citizens and called for stronger measures to tackle insecurity.

 

In its resolutions, the Senate condemned the attacks on military formations and observed a minute of silence in honour of fallen soldiers.

 

Lawmakers also urged the Armed Forces to conduct a comprehensive audit of affected formations to identify gaps in equipment and operational strategy, while strengthening adherence to rules of engagement and international humanitarian law.

 

They further called on communities to support security agencies with credible intelligence and commended troops of Operation Hadin Kai for their efforts, urging improved welfare for personnel.

 

The call comes after a video surfaced showing the abducted victims in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area, where insurgents warned against rescue attempts and issued a 72-hour ultimatum over their demands.