Gladness Gideon
A civil society organisation, Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies, has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack on a military base in Malam-Fatori, Borno State, while commending the gallantry of Nigerian troops who fought back the assailants.
In a statement released on Thursday and signed by the group’s convener, Mary Fatile, the attack—carried out on Sunday night—was described as a cowardly act by insurgents, highlighting the enduring threat posed by terrorist groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
“This senseless act of violence, which resulted in the loss of brave Nigerian soldiers, is a stark reminder of the dangers our security agents face daily,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to the families of the fallen heroes. We also pray for the quick recovery of those injured.”
Despite the tragic loss of life, the group praised the Nigerian military for successfully repelling the assault and inflicting significant casualties on the insurgents, noting the courage and professionalism displayed under duress.
Fatile, however, voiced concern over what she termed the continued bloodshed in the region and attributed the worsening insecurity to prolonged government inaction and failure to provide adequate support for frontline troops.
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“The lives of Nigerians have become mere pawns in a ruthless game of power,” she stated. “Our leaders, driven by selfish ambition, have turned a blind eye to the sacrifices of our armed forces and the suffering of citizens.”
The group called on the Federal Government to urgently launch a thorough investigation into the underlying causes of terrorism in the country and develop a comprehensive strategy to end the unrelenting violence.
In her concluding remarks, Fatile urged citizens to demand greater accountability and justice while reaffirming the group’s unwavering support for the Nigerian military and other security agencies.
“We urge our troops to remain resolute in the fight against terrorism. They carry the hopes of a nation weary of conflict,” the statement concluded.
The attack on Malam-Fatori underscores the ongoing challenges in the fight against insurgency in Nigeria’s northeast, even as security forces continue to confront threats with resilience and sacrifice.