By Ekani Sunday
The North-East Youth Revival Movement (NEYM) has expressed deep sorrow and outrage following the recent deadly attack by Boko Haram insurgents on a military base in Marte, Borno State, which led to the death of five Nigerian soldiers.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Abbarious Lawal, the group described the attack as a damning indictment of the federal government’s failure to protect both the nation’s armed forces and its citizens. It called for the immediate resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar, citing persistent failures in Nigeria’s security architecture.
“In light of this devastating event, we hereby call for the immediate resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar,” Lawal stated. “This demand reflects a growing frustration among the citizens of Nigeria regarding the government’s failure to provide adequate security and effectively combat the escalating threat posed by insurgents.”
According to the group, the insurgents overran a forward operating base, looted weapons, and commandeered military vehicles. In the aftermath, several soldiers, overwhelmed and demoralized, reportedly abandoned their posts and fled to nearby villages, leaving their equipment behind.
“This alarming behavior illustrates a critical crisis of confidence within our military ranks,” NEYM said. “The sight of a commanding officer’s vehicle and vital military resources falling into insurgents’ hands gravely compromises our operational integrity and further weakens morale.”
The statement also highlighted the broader humanitarian implications of the attack. Residents of Marte and nearby communities, fearing further violence, have fled to towns such as Dikwa, Lukumani, and Mafa. This has exacerbated the region’s displacement crisis, with overcrowded IDP camps now facing additional pressure.
Citing data from SBM Intelligence, the group revealed that over 2,000 Nigerians were killed in violent incidents between January and March 2025. Borno State reportedly recorded the highest number of casualties, including 892 civilians, 462 bandits, and 234 Boko Haram fighters.
“Our call for the resignation or retirement of Minister Badaru Abubakar by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is emblematic of a broader demand for accountability within our government,” the statement continued. “The perception of incompetence in handling the escalating insecurity in the region is not unfounded.”
NEYM accused the federal government of lacking a clear and strategic counterinsurgency plan and criticized its failure to engage local communities or equip military personnel adequately. The group argued that the repeated desertions by troops were less about cowardice and more about systemic neglect.
“Our soldiers are often thrust into perilous situations without adequate training, equipment, or support,” the statement read. “It is essential to address the root causes of this crisis, such as inadequate funding, lack of morale, and poor strategic planning.”
NEYM insisted that accountability at the highest levels is crucial to restoring public trust and improving national security. The group emphasized that without real reforms, the cycle of violence and displacement in the North-East would continue unchecked.
“The call for the resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar is a reflection of deep-seated frustration with the status quo and a demand for meaningful change,” the group declared. “As our nation grapples with the consequences of ongoing violence, we must prioritize accountability, reform, and a renewed commitment to the safety and security of all Nigerians.”
“Only through concerted efforts to address these pressing issues can we hope to overcome the challenges posed by insurgency and restore peace and stability to the North-East and beyond,” NEYM concluded.
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