The Senate Committee on Army has expressed deep condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, following the death of Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Paiko and several soldiers during a counterinsurgency operation in Borno State.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, in Abuja.
The committee described the fallen officers as heroes who demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism, and patriotism in the defense of the nation.
“On behalf of the Senate Committee on Army, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, the Nigerian Army, and the families of the gallant officers and soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” Senator Yar’Adua said.
He assured the Nigerian Army of the Senate’s unwavering support toward ensuring the welfare, training, and operational readiness of troops engaged in internal security operations.
“We will work tirelessly to provide adequate resources and support to the Nigerian Army in its quest to maintain peace and security in our great nation,” he added.
The committee prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen soldiers, asking Almighty Allah to grant them Jannatul Firdaus and to comfort their grieving families.
“May their sacrifice never be in vain, and may their memory continue to inspire us to build a safer and more prosperous Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
Late Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Paiko, who until his death served as Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, was reportedly ambushed alongside his troops by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during a clearance operation in Marte Local Government Area over the weekend.
The attack also left several soldiers injured and military vehicles destroyed, sparking renewed concern over insurgent activity in the North-East.
Military sources disclosed that the troops were responding to intelligence reports on terrorist movements in the area when they came under heavy fire. Despite a fierce counteroffensive, Paiko and his men were eventually overpowered.
His death has been described as a major loss to the Nigerian Army, given his distinguished record of leadership and valor in counterterrorism operations.
