Senate pays tribute to fallen soldiers in Borno ambush
The Senate Committee on Army has expressed its condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, over the death of Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Paiko and several soldiers killed during a counterinsurgency operation in Borno State.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, the committee described the fallen officers as heroes who demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism, and patriotism in defending the nation.
“On behalf of the Senate Committee on Army, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, the Nigerian Army, and the families of the gallant officers and soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” Yar’Adua said.
He assured the Nigerian Army of the Senate’s continued support in ensuring the welfare and operational readiness of troops.
“We will work tirelessly to provide adequate resources and support to the Nigerian Army in its quest to maintain peace and security in our great nation,” he added.
The committee also prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen soldiers, asking Almighty Allah to grant them Jannatul Firdaus and comfort their families.
“May their sacrifice never be in vain, and may their memory continue to inspire us to build a safer and more prosperous Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
Lieutenant Colonel Paiko, who until his death was the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, was reportedly ambushed alongside his troops by Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, terrorists during a clearance operation in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State last weekend.
The attack also left several soldiers injured and military vehicles destroyed, heightening concerns about renewed insurgent activity in the North-East.
Military sources said the troops had been responding to intelligence reports on terrorist movements in the area when they came under heavy fire. Despite a fierce counterattack, Paiko and several of his men were overpowered.
His death has been described as a major loss to the Nigerian Army, given his record of bravery and leadership in anti-insurgency operations.