From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
The Nigerian Senate has called for urgent military reinforcement to counter a resurgence of Boko Haram attacks that have killed dozens, destroyed communities, and displaced thousands in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe States.
The call followed a motion on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, sponsored by Senator Aminu Iya Abbas (PDP, Adamawa Central) and supported by 17 North-East senators. Abbas detailed the devastation in his constituency, stating, “On February 25, 2025, homes and schools were burned in Kwampre and Zar. On April 15, five people were killed in Banga and Lar, with churches and homes set ablaze. On April 26, eleven vigilantes from a neighbouring local government were murdered defending a community.”
He highlighted a particularly brutal attack on May 16 in Kulda, Hong LGA, noting, “Sixteen people were killed, and 90% of homes and places of worship were reduced to ashes. These people now live as refugees in their own land.”
Senate Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) warned that peace in Borno is deteriorating, stating, “Boko Haram is back. Last week, five soldiers were killed in Marte LGA. Government lodges and police stations were destroyed. In Kukawa, 23 people were massacred in one community and 40 in another for allegedly supporting a rival faction.”
Lawmakers expressed concern over the redeployment of military resources to the Northwest to combat banditry, creating a security vacuum that allows insurgents to regroup. The Senate urged the government to bolster military presence, particularly in Hong LGA, and directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate relief to displaced residents. A one-minute silence was observed for the victims.
Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) cautioned that the Senate lacks the authority to mandate military base establishment, stating, “Only the President, as Commander-in-Chief, can make that call. We can recommend, but not command.” Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged Dickson’s point, clarifying the Senate’s role as advisory.