Senate worries over resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno, Yobe

The Senate has expressed concern over the sudden resurgence of Boko Haram in the North-East, particularly in Borno and Yobe States, calling for the swift deployment of military personnel to contain the renewed threats.

It reported that 12 soldiers were killed on 12 May in Marte town, Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Senate also stated that Gajiram, the headquarters of Nganzai Local Government Area, was attacked on Tuesday morning.

The six senators representing Borno and Yobe States had drawn the Senate’s attention to the development in a motion of urgent public importance, which they jointly moved on Tuesday.

They were the Senate Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno; Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume; and Senator Shehu Kaka Lawan from Borno State; as well as Senators Musa Mustapha, Ahmad Lawan, and Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai from Yobe State.

In its resolution on the matter, the Senate urged the “military high command to swiftly redeploy sufficient personnel to the North-East and ensure they are adequately equipped with modern technology to effectively address the resurgence of Boko Haram.”

It also mandated the Committees on Army and Air Force to ensure compliance.

The motion stated:

“The Senate notes that a few years ago, two-thirds of the Local Government Areas in Borno State were under the control of Boko Haram. However, with the concerted efforts of the military and the civilian Joint Task Force, the areas were reclaimed, restoring freedom and liberty for residents.

“Also notes that after relative peace was restored in Borno and Yobe States, the military relocated its tactical command operations to the North-West to address issues of kidnapping and banditry in the region.

“Further notes that on Monday, 12 May 2025, insurgents attacked and killed more than 12 soldiers in Marte town, Monguno LGA, and early this morning, Gajiram, the headquarters of Nganzai Local Government, was also attacked, necessitating military reinforcements in the state.

“Concerned that the country is experiencing a resurgence of Boko Haram, marked by increased attacks by insurgents targeting communities, including those recently resettled, and regaining strength after years of conflict.

“Worried that the insurgents have employed more modern technology, including the use of drones, to unleash attacks on villages and communities in the states.

“Also worried that the sect has resorted to planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in strategic areas, which, when detonated, always result in high casualties and obstruct vehicular movement.

“Cognisant of the need to return military operations in full force to Borno and Yobe States and equip them with the necessary technology to counter the nefarious activities of insurgents.

“Also cognisant that a strong presence of the military in the North-East zone will effectively curb the resurgence of Boko Haram.”

The motion, which received overwhelming support from senators, was passed at Tuesday’s session, presided over by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin.