Senator Ali Ndume has raised fresh alarm over the abduction of more than 400 residents of Ngoshe community in Gwoza local government area of Borno State, urging swift federal intervention while insisting Nigeria can defeat insecurity within six months if decisive action is taken.
The lawmaker, who represents Borno-South Senatorial District, disclosed that the victims – mostly women and children – were kidnapped last month by insurgents linked to Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS). He said the attackers not only abducted residents but also destroyed homes and military posts during the assault.
Although the Nigerian Army has since reclaimed Ngoshe, Ndume lamented that many survivors have fled to Pulka, while hundreds remain in captivity. “It is appalling that those of us in authority at the federal level have not met the expectations of our people in fulfilling this sacred duty of securing lives and property,” he said, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take urgent steps to secure the release of the abducted residents.
Ndume also appealed for immediate reconstruction of the devastated community, noting that the Borno State Government has already released ₦100 million for resettlement and rehabilitation. He added that displaced residents are eager to return to Ngoshe, even if it means living in temporary shelters.
Beyond the immediate crisis, the senator expressed broader concerns about Nigeria’s worsening security situation, arguing that insurgency and related threats could be decisively tackled within six months – if the government demonstrates the necessary political will. “All we need is to train our soldiers, equip them, arm them very well, and then motivate them,” Ndume said during a television interview. “If the President and the Federal Government are serious, we can end this in six months”.
He decried the continued killing of military personnel, describing it as a troubling trend that underscores the urgency for stronger action. According to him, Nigeria must move beyond rhetoric and adopt a more aggressive, technology-driven approach to security.
Ndume emphasised the need for improved intelligence, air support, and the deployment of modern tools such as drones, citing examples from other countries tackling insurgency with advanced technology. He also stressed the importance of leveraging trained special forces already within Nigeria’s ranks rather than relying heavily on external assistance. “We have capable hands on the ground; all they need is equipment, ammunition, and motivation,” he said, urging authorities to “walk the talk” in addressing insecurity.
The senator further commended Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for his efforts, noting that the state would have suffered far greater devastation without his interventions.
