After killing of ’44’ soldiers, senate sends delegation to north-east

The senate on Thursday resolved to send a delegation to visit the troops combating Boko Haram in the north-east.

The resolution of the senate followed a motion sponsored by Bala Na’Allah, deputy senate leader.

Senate President Bukola Saraki had drawn the attention of his colleagues which prompted Na’Allah to move the motion.

“We are all aware that a few days ago we lost about 44 brave soldiers of the Nigerian army in northern Borno,” Saraki said.

“We must pay our respects to these brave men that have sacrificed and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our own safety and peace in our country.”

While moving the motion, the deputy senate leader said: “About five days ago, a camp in Maiduguri was attacked by Boko-Haram and we were reported to have lost about 44 soldiers.

“I want it bring it to the notice of the senate that Lieutenant Colonel Sakaba is my cousin and he was head of that team that was attacked and he lost his life. Unfortunately, he was one of the most dedicated soldiers I have ever met.

“Not because he is my relation but because I knew from his commitment on what he has gone through and his contribution to the Nigerian army.”

On her part, Biodun Olujimi, senate minority leader, said the government is not opening up about the situation in the north-east.

“There is something government is not telling us over the death of these soldiers. We must know what we are facing and the conditions for the people fighting for us,” Olujimi said.

“We should make sure this insurgency does not spread. Government must sit up. We cannot keep posing young men and women. I pray their families will be able to find succour.”

The upper legislative chamber mandated its committee on army to pay a condolence visit to the family of deceased and chief of army staff.

Thereafter, the senators adjourned plenary in honour of the slain soldiers.

TheCable had reported that the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWA) faction of Boko Haram attacked 157 task force battalion of the Nigerian army in Maitile, Borno.

A military source said the soldiers who stood to fight the insurgents were killed and the whereabouts of some are not known.