ACF Declares Terrorists' Actions as Total War, Urges Government Action
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), representing Northern leaders, has stated that terrorists in Nigeria have declared total war, calling on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to contain the escalating security threat. In a communique issued after a Board of Trustees meeting, the group emphasized that the nation's security challenges have evolved beyond routine governance issues, now posing an existential threat to the country.
Signed by BoT Chairman Bashir Dalhatu and released to journalists in Kaduna, the communique highlighted the scale, persistence, and human cost of violence, demanding a fundamental shift in national priorities. The time has come for the government of Nigeria to treat this crisis not as one issue among many, but as the overriding national emergency, the document asserted, noting that the situation has progressed from insurgency in the Northeast to widespread banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes.
Army Buries Fallen Officers with Full Military Honors
In a related development, the Nigerian Army laid to rest Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah, Captain Ismail, and other soldiers killed in a recent insurgent attack in Borno State. The burial ceremony, held at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, was described as solemn and emotionally charged in an official Army statement posted on Facebook.
The officers and men were killed on April 9 when suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters launched coordinated assaults on military positions in Benisheikh, a strategic town along the Maiduguri-Damaturu highway. The Army honored the fallen heroes with full military rites, underscoring the sacrifices made in the ongoing conflict.
Troops Repel Insurgent Attack in Borno State
Meanwhile, troops under Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled an attack by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on Benisheikh in Borno State, preventing an attempted overrun of the town. According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the incident occurred around 11:15 p.m. on April 14, 2026, with troops from the Headquarters 29 Task Force Brigade engaging the insurgents.
No soldiers were killed in the encounter, although three personnel sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire and were evacuated to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital for treatment. The military reported that the number of casualties among the attackers could not be immediately confirmed, with follow-up operations ongoing to track fleeing fighters and assess damage. Security sources noted that the overall situation in the area remains calm but unpredictable, highlighting the persistent volatility in the region.
