The Nigerian Senate has directed the military high command to conduct a comprehensive investigation into recent attacks on military formations in Borno State.
The resolution, reached during Wednesday’s plenary, mandates the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, alongside other service chiefs, to carry out a detailed operational and logistical audit of the incidents in Benisheikh and Monguno.
Lawmakers said the probe should examine the circumstances surrounding the attacks, including the adequacy of equipment and compliance with established rules of engagement.
Presenting the motion, Senator Tahir Monguno raised concerns over the frequency and intensity of insurgent assaults on military positions, describing the situation as alarming.
“These repeated attacks, particularly in Monguno and Benisheikh, suggest a calculated attempt by insurgents to undermine military operations and disrupt key humanitarian and commercial routes,” he said.
He further noted that Monguno remains a strategic garrison town, while Benisheikh serves as a critical link along the Damaturu–Maiduguri highway.
The Senate also called on the Armed Forces to investigate allegations of civilian casualties during military operations, stressing the need for accountability and adherence to humanitarian standards.
“The protection of civilians is not optional; it is a fundamental obligation under both national and international humanitarian law,” lawmakers stated during deliberations.
The motion followed reports of casualties among military personnel in the attacks, including senior officers such as Brigadier General Oseni Braimoh, Colonel Mohammed Isya, Captain A.M. Esmat, Lieutenant Kelvin Festus, and several other soldiers.
While acknowledging the sacrifices of troops in the ongoing fight against Boko Haram, the Senate warned that renewed violence poses serious threats to national security, food systems, and efforts to resettle displaced communities in the North-East.
As part of its resolutions, the chamber observed a minute of silence in honour of fallen soldiers and affected civilians, while also condemning the continued insurgent attacks.
In addition, lawmakers urged the military to strengthen training on civilian protection and ensure strict compliance with rules of engagement.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Abdul Ningi suggested that political activities in some northern states be temporarily suspended due to the deteriorating security situation.
“We must prioritise security above all else. Without safety, political activities lose their meaning,” he said.
The Senate emphasised that addressing operational gaps and improving accountability mechanisms remain critical to restoring stability in the region.
