In the wake of a recent deadly attack in Ngoshe community, Gwoza LGA of Borno state, Senator Ali Ndume has called on President Bola Tinubu to consider hiring military contractors as part of efforts to curb insurgency and banditry across Nigeria.
The attack, carried out by suspected Boko Haram terrorists, left six farmers dead and five others abducted, further escalating concerns over insecurity in the region.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Ndume, who represents Borno South in the national assembly, argued that military contractors would provide immediate relief in fighting Boko Haram in the northeast and bandit groups in the northwest.
He pointed out that many countries worldwide employ military contractors to handle difficult security situations and recommended that Nigeria adopt a similar approach.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can consider this as a short-term measure,” Ndume said. “These contractors will work alongside our military and the civilian joint task force (JTF), who have extensive knowledge of the terrain.
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“With their equipment and military hardware, they can quickly neutralize these Boko Haram terrorists. The contractors could also address the issue of bandits operating in the northwest.”
The senator emphasized that while the hiring of contractors would offer immediate relief, the federal government should also focus on long-term solutions, such as expanding the Nigerian military.
“Over time, the government can recruit young Nigerians into the military and aim to raise the force to one million strong. But for now, the president should seriously consider military contractors,” Ndume added.
The call for military intervention comes after Filibus Yakubu, councillor of Ngoshe ward, revealed that Jubril Zarana, commander of the civilian JTF in the area, was killed during the recent attack.
According to Yakubu, the terrorists ambushed farmers on their land, killing some and abducting others. He further disclosed that three women had been released by the terrorists, confirming the capture of several villagers.
Yakubu also highlighted the dire conditions facing the people of Ngoshe, stating that despite the efforts of the state government, they were struggling with a lack of basic necessities.
“Our people are suffering because of the absence of essential life support, but they remain in their homeland out of love for it. NGOs and other agencies have not provided us with the food supplies we need,” Yakubu lamented.
Ndume’s proposal reflects the growing urgency for innovative approaches to Nigeria’s persistent security challenges as communities in the country’s northern regions continue to bear the brunt of terrorist violence.