The National Assembly has expressed profound grief over the tragic loss of Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, and several gallant soldiers who were killed during a terrorist ambush in Bama, Borno State, on October 17.
In a solemn statement issued on Monday, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, described the fallen troops as “gallant patriots who gave their lives in defence of the nation.” He extended heartfelt condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Nigerian Army, and the bereaved families.
“These brave heroes fought for the peace of our great nation, and their legacies shall endure forever,” Senator Yar’Adua said. “Their sacrifice is a stark reminder of the price of our collective security and the courage of those who stand on the frontlines.”
The Senate Committee reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army in its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and restore peace in the North-East and other troubled regions. Senator Yar’Adua pledged that the legislature would continue to work tirelessly to ensure adequate funding, equipment, and welfare for troops deployed across the country.
The Nigerian Army, in its official statement, confirmed that Lt. Col. Paiko and his men paid the supreme price while repelling a fierce attack by Boko Haram insurgents. Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele praised the fallen soldiers as “not just warriors, but fathers, brothers, and sons who showed immeasurable courage in the face of adversity.”
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Oluyede, also offered condolences and vowed that the Nigerian Army would continue to honour the memory of the fallen by intensifying its resolve to defeat terrorism and protect the sovereignty of Nigeria.