Senate urges Federal Government to rescue 416 Boko Haram captives in Borno
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of 416 women, children, and elderly persons held captive by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State since March 30, 2026. This call follows renewed insurgent attacks on military formations and fresh threats from the terrorists against any forceful rescue attempt. The resolution stemmed from a motion sponsored by Senator Tahir Monguno and co-sponsored by Senators Ali Ndume and Kaka Lawan, highlighting recent coordinated attacks on military formations in Monguno and Benisheikh. Senator Ndume warned that insurgents have threatened to disperse the abducted victims if urgent action is not taken. The Senate condemned the continued attacks, observed a minute of silence for fallen soldiers, and urged the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs to conduct a comprehensive operational and logistical audit of affected military formations. Lawmakers also called for strengthened adherence to rules of engagement and international humanitarian law, thorough investigation of harm to civilians, and encouraged local communities to support security agencies. This development follows a video released by a Boko Haram faction showing the abducted victims in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area, and warning against rescue attempts, threatening to disperse victims if demands are not met within 72 hours. The victims were abducted after an attack on a military base in Ngoshe in early March.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu has sent a bill to the House of Representatives to repeal and re-enact the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Establishment Act, 2025. The President's letter, dated April 1, 2026, and addressed to Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, requests expedited consideration for the proposed legislation. Tinubu stated that a review of the existing framework is necessary to meet current security demands, aiming to strengthen funding, oversight, and operational efficiency of the Nigeria Police Force. The re-enactment is intended to improve the management and administration of the fund, support training and skill enhancement, provide modern security equipment, and enhance the welfare of the NPF. The President emphasized that the amendments would improve the transparency and long-term viability of the intervention fund, enhancing its operational capacity, accountability, and sustainability in line with the nation's security imperatives. The Nigeria Police Trust Fund was established to provide dedicated funding for training, equipping, and welfare, drawing resources from the Federation Account, company contributions, and international grants. Concerns have been raised regarding the Fund's effectiveness, transparency, and coordination, with stakeholders noting overlaps, project delays, and the need for stronger accountability. This move is part of broader government efforts to reform the security architecture, improve resource management, and align funding with current threats like terroris
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