The Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has called on the military authorities to deploy troops, even if it is a platoon, to safeguard Kirawa and other surrounding communities bordering Gwoza local government area and Cameroun Republic.
Ndume’s appeal followed a Boko Haram ambush along Kirawa-Pulka Road on Friday, which claimed the life of one Civilian Joint Task Force (name withheld), while many others, including motorists and passengers, sustained injuries.
It was also gathered that some victims escaped into the bush, as six of the vehicles loaded with their luggage and food items were set ablaze by the terrorists.
Senator Ndume, who is a former chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, on Saturday morning lamented that since the deadly attack on a Camerounian Military Base in Kirawa which led to their dislodgement last month, there is no single military presence in Kirawa, adding that, the only few resilient hunters, vigilantes and men of the Civilian Joint Task Force are always overwhelmed in safeguarding the area.
Ndume appreciated the unwavering commitment and sacrifices by Nigerian troops in the fight against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists but said, the people in Kirawa and other border communities in Gwoza, among others, risked attacks as they are currently living in perpetual fear without security operatives to safeguard them and their property.
“It is very disheartening that I received a distress call that some armed Boko Haram terrorists laid an ambush on motorists and passengers along the Kirawa-Pulka road yesterday.
The victims were escorted by a few members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, as there was no military escort due to the dislodgement of Camerounian troops based in Kirawa last month.
“Unfortunately, one of our brave Civilian Joint Task Force members was killed during an exchange of gunfire in the ambush. Many victims are nowhere to be found as I speak. At least six vehicles, including two Golf Volkswagen Saloons, a bus, and three trucks, were set ablaze during the attack.
“Let me use this medium to commiserate with the families of the deceased Civilian Joint Task Force. May His Soul Rest In Peace as we pray for the injured ones’ quick recovery and safety of those still missing.
“Let me also appeal to the military authorities to deploy troops, even if it is a platoon, to safeguard Kirawa and its people because my people are now living in perpetual fear since the dislodgement of Camerounian troops based in Kirawa,” Ndume said.
