Ndume hails military for restoring peace in Borno community seized by Boko Haram

Ali Ndume, former leader of the senate, has commended the Nigerian Army for its swift response in restoring normalcy to Kirawa, a border community in Borno state recently attacked by Boko Haram insurgents.

Residents of the town had fled into neighbouring Cameroon after the insurgents overran the community, burning the district head’s palace, a military barracks, and several homes.

However, the military repelled the terrorists after deploying reinforcements, and residents have started to return home following the recent troop presence.

In a statement on Wednesday, Ndume, who represents Borno south, praised Olufemi Oluyede, the chief of army staff (COAS), and Christopher Musa, the chief of defence staff (CDS), for their prompt intervention, particularly the deployment of the 153 task force battalion to the area.

The lawmaker said the military’s quick action reduced the level of destruction that could have been inflicted on the community.

Ndume urged the military authorities to maintain a permanent presence in Kirawa, describing it as a strategic border town.

He also called for sustained collaboration between the Nigerian military and its Cameroonian counterpart to strengthen security across border communities.

“The courage displayed by our military and their resilience remain laudable,” Ndume said.

“I have always acknowledged the fact that our military is overstretched, and I am impressed with their successes in the face of obvious challenges.”

The lawmaker sympathised with the residents of the Kirawa community, urging them to remain vigilant and cooperate with the military to ensure lasting peace.

“I sympathise with the people of Kirawa who are at the receiving end of the insurgents,” he said.

“My appeal to them is to always remain vigilant and be willing to share useful information with the military to secure their community.”

Ndume also commended Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, for his continued efforts to resettle displaced persons and encourage resilience among affected residents.

He further applauded President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to restoring peace to the north-east.

“Security of lives and property is the first and paramount responsibility of any government,” he said.

“The present administration has not failed in fulfilling this constitutional mandate to Nigerians.”