The Senate has urged the Federal Government to take immediate steps to rescue 416 women, children and elderly persons held by Boko Haram in Borno State since March 30, 2026. The call followed a motion titled "Urgent Need to Curb Attacks on Military Formations by Boko Haram Insurgents," led by Senator Ali Ndume. The motion cited renewed attacks on military bases in Monguno and Benisheikh, which have disrupted counter-insurgency gains and threatened national security. A video released by Jama'atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda'Awati Wal-Jihad showed the captives in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area, with insurgents issuing a 72-hour ultimatum, warning they would disperse the victims if their demands were not met. The attacks in early March involved the destruction of military vehicles, killing of personnel, and abduction of civilians from a base in Ngoshe. Senator Abdul Ningi suggested suspending political activities in frontline states until security improves, while Senator Diket Plang said the killings of senior officers were spreading fear among Nigerians. The Senate condemned the attacks, observed a minute of silence for fallen soldiers, and called on the Chief of Defence Staff to audit military logistics and operations in affected areas. Lawmakers also urged the Armed Forces to investigate civilian harm allegations and adhere to rules of engagement, while encouraging communities to provide timely intelligence. Troops of Operation Hadin Kai were commended for their bravery, and the Federal Government was asked to improve their welfare.
Senator Abdul Ningi calls for political activities to be suspended in frontline states, yet offers no explanation for how elected officials would remain in office without political activity. The 416 captives in Gwoza have been held since March 30, 2026, and face dispersal if demands are not met within 72 hours. No timeline or rescue plan has been provided by the Federal Government. The Senate's call for audits and investigations does not address the urgency of the hostages' fate.
💡 NaijaBuzz is an AI-assisted news aggregator. This content is curated from third-party sources — NaijaBuzz is not the original publisher and is not responsible for the accuracy of source reporting. The NaijaBuzz Take is AI-assisted editorial opinion only, not established fact. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction. NaijaBuzz does not endorse the views expressed in source articles.
