Boko Haram attacked ex-Army chief Buratai’s convoy in Borno – Ndume
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd), narrowly avoided death on Friday when his convoy came under heavy gunfire in Borno State.
This attack, believed to have been carried out by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, has intensified worries regarding the worsening insecurity in the area.
The information was shared by Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno, during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday evening.
Ndume indicated that the retired army general and his soldiers were ambushed close to a frontline military installation.
While details about casualties remain uncertain, the lawmaker reported that a fierce gun battle broke out between the assailants and the soldiers guarding Buratai.
“We are facing a serious security crisis. Just two days ago, Buratai was targeted at the frontline operational base in Borno.
“His team fought bravely, but the insurgents were able to damage multiple military assets,” he stated.
The attackers reportedly aimed at high-value items such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAPVs), tanks, and machine guns.
In some instances, Ndume noted, the insurgents not only destroyed these resources but also stole weaponry and equipment.
“Insurgents are now operating with ease, burning and stealing military assets. This is developing into a major crisis,” he remarked.
Ndume also took the chance to highlight the grave state of Nigeria’s overall security situation, mentioning that violent conflicts, banditry, and sabotage are now widespread throughout the country.
“All six geopolitical zones are facing security issues to different extents.
“Even in the South-South, we are dealing with economic sabotage such as oil theft. Currently, the South-West seems to be the only region that is relatively secure,” he added.
The attack on Buratai occurs against a backdrop of renewed demands for a more robust reform of Nigeria’s security framework, especially in the troubled North-East, where Boko Haram and ISWAP factions continue to function with deadly freedom.
Buratai held the position of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff from 2015 to 2021 and played a key role in the nation’s counterinsurgency efforts.
Since his retirement, he has continued to be a significant figure within security discussions.
Leave A Comment