The north-east of Nigeria has once again been plunged into chaos as suspected jihadists launched a ferocious assault on a military base, resulting in the tragic loss of seven soldiers. This daring attack, which also saw the militants littering a major highway with explosives, underscores the persistent threat of extremist groups in the region. The brazenness of the attack highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the Nigerian military in quelling the nearly two-decade-long insurgency. Here’s a quick rundown of the key points:
- Seven Nigerian soldiers were killed in a coordinated attack.
- The assault was carried out by fighters linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
- Rockets and drones were used in the attack on the base in Ngamdu village.
- Explosives were planted on a vital highway connecting Maiduguri and Damaturu.
- The attack has led to a temporary closure of the highway for military de-mining operations.
- This incident is part of a recent surge in extremist activity.
Deadly Dawn Assault on Ngamdu Base
In the grim early hours of Friday, the Ngamdu village army base, located about 100 kilometers from Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, became the target of a ruthless attack. Fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) unleashed a barrage of rocket-propelled grenades and drones laden with explosives onto the unsuspecting soldiers. The coordination and ferocity of the assault left military sources shaken.
Eyewitness Accounts and Conflicting Reports
“We lost seven soldiers in the well-coordinated attack by ISWAP terrorists,” a military officer, who wished to remain anonymous, told AFP. He added that four military vehicles were also destroyed in the onslaught. This figure aligns with the information provided by a second military source, who also spoke on condition of anonymity.
However, a military memo that surfaced later presented a slightly different picture, reporting six soldiers killed and six others injured. Casualties on the side of the jihadists remain unconfirmed, though bloodstains were reportedly visible on the ground. The Nigerian army itself initially released a lower casualty toll, stating that four troops were killed and that the attackers were ultimately repelled by the brave soldiers and reinforcements.
The “Super Camp” Strategy Under Scrutiny
This attack comes at a time when the Nigerian military has been increasingly relying on a strategy of consolidating troops into larger, fortified bases, often referred to as “super camps.” The aim is to better withstand the relentless attacks from militant groups. However, critics argue that this strategy, while perhaps improving base security, has inadvertently given extremists more freedom to roam and operate in rural areas. This, in turn, has left innocent travelers more vulnerable to kidnappings and other atrocities.
A Resurgence of Violence
The incident in Ngamdu is not an isolated event. In recent times, there has been a noticeable uptick in attacks by both ISWAP and its rival, the Boko Haram group, following a period of relative calm. This resurgence of violence is deeply concerning for the millions of people in the northeast who have already been displaced by the nearly 16-year-long insurgency. The conflict has not only devastated communities within Nigeria but has also spilled over into neighboring countries, necessitating a regional military coalition to combat the Islamist menace.
The Highway Menace
Adding to the terror, the militants also scattered explosives along a crucial 120-kilometer highway that links Maiduguri with Damaturu, the capital of neighboring Yobe state. This act of planting roadside bombs forced the military to temporarily close the road for de-mining operations, disrupting essential travel and commerce. Such tactics are designed to sow fear and hinder the movement of both civilians and military personnel.
Broader Context of the Insurgency
The ongoing insurgency, which began in 2009, has aimed to establish an Islamic caliphate in the region. While the Nigerian army has claimed successes in combating these groups, the persistent attacks, particularly those involving sophisticated methods like drones and explosives, indicate that the fight is far from over. The impact on the civilian population remains immense, with widespread displacement and a constant threat to life and livelihood.
It is a sad day when our brave soldiers face such attacks. The government must do more to secure our nation.