President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern directive to Nigeria’s Armed Forces to intensify efforts in protecting civilians following a brutal Boko Haram assault on the Ngoshe community in the Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
The attack, which targeted innocent residents, also claimed the lives of military personnel. In a tragic turn of events during the heat of battle, the Presidency confirmed that some civilians were caught in “friendly fire” as the Nigerian Air Force conducted aerial interdictions against fleeing insurgents.
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, seen by Securitynewsalert.com, Tinubu condemned the violence in the strongest terms, describing the incident as a “heartless assault on hapless citizens.”
“The President mourns the loss of innocent lives, including military personnel, and those caught in friendly fire during the aerial interdiction of fleeing terrorists by the Air Force,” the statement read.
Despite the tragedy, the President urged Nigerians in the Northeast and across the country to remain resilient, emphasising that the nation must not succumb to fear in the face of extremist provocation.
The Presidency commended the swift intervention of ground troops, noting that the military’s response resulted in the neutralisation of scores of terrorists and forced their subsequent retreat.
However, with several community members reportedly abducted during the chaos, the President has made the safe return of captives a top priority. He has specifically charged the military and other security agencies to work urgently to rescue those kidnapped. Furthermore, he directed the armed forces to heighten surveillance to protect civilians nationwide and prevent future attacks on military installations in the North East.
Extending his deepest sympathies to the Borno State Government and the bereaved families, President Tinubu offered prayers for the souls of those killed in both the primary attack and the accidental engagement during the pursuit.
The Ngoshe attack serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing security challenges in the region, even as the military continues its offensive against insurgent holdouts.
