Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, has urged President Bola Tinubu to consider hiring military contractors to combat Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State. This comes after a recent attack on Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area, where six farmers were killed and five others, including women, were abducted. The senator commended the military and Civilian JTF’s efforts but noted that they lack the necessary equipment to eliminate the remaining insurgents.
Ndume suggested that military contractors, used by countries like the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom, could work with local forces to defeat Boko Haram. He also proposed recruiting able-bodied Nigerian youths to increase the military’s numbers to at least one million in the long run.
The attack on Ngoshe resulted in the death of Jubril Dada Zarana, commander of the Civilian JTF in the area. Filibus Yakubu, a councillor at Ngoshe ward, reported that the terrorists ambushed farmers, killing some and abducting others. Three women were released, providing information about the hostages.
Ndume expressed concern that farmers, frequent victims of attacks, are being forced to abandon their harvests amidst a severe food crisis. Yakubu added that the community is struggling due to lack of essential support, despite the state government’s efforts.
The senator’s proposal aims to address the deteriorating security situation in the North-east and North-west, where Boko Haram and bandits continue to pose a threat.
