Another shadow has fallen over Borno State, specifically the border community of Banki in Bama Local Government Area. Following a recent terrorist attack on the 152 Task Force Battalion, the air is thick with grief, fear, and a disquieting haze of conflicting reports, particularly concerning the exact number of military casualties. While officials confirm losses, local accounts paint a picture of a more severe engagement, leaving the community grappling not just with the violence, but with uncertainty.
The assault, which struck on Thursday night, has once again underscored the fragile security situation in Bama LGA, a region that has become synonymous with tragedy. Just weeks prior, the Darajamal attack in the same area claimed 63 lives, a stark reminder of the persistent threat faced by residents.
The Official Stance: One Soldier Lost
From the Defence Headquarters, spokesperson Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye acknowledged the attack, stating, “It’s true that our troops had an encounter with the terrorists/insurgents at Banki on Thursday night. The troops were not dislodged as alleged. There was a serious firefight between our troops and the terrorists. The troops are still at their base, although we lost a soldier during the encounter.” He further added that the Acting GOC of the 7 Division visited the scene the next day, confirming the situation was “under control” and troop morale remained “high.”
This official narrative aims to reassure, painting a picture of a contained incident with minimal military losses.
Local Accounts: A Different Story Emerges
However, accounts from local officials and residents suggest a more grim reality, at least in terms of impact. The Information Officer of Bama Local Government, Babagana Abatcha, confirmed that five civilians lost their lives and six sustained injuries. These injured civilians have since been evacuated across the border to Mora, Cameroon, for urgent medical attention.
Crucially, while Abatcha provided details on civilian casualties, he remained “silent on whether civilian casualties were discussed between local and military authorities,” highlighting a potential communication gap or a reluctance to delve into sensitive military information.
Further raising questions about the official military casualty count is the grim detail gathered by our correspondent: more than four military vehicles were reportedly set ablaze during the attack. Such extensive destruction of military assets often points to a more intense engagement than the loss of a single soldier might suggest. The Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alhaji Gana Alh Chibu, corroborated this, stating, “As for the military casualties, I don’t have an idea. But I am aware they set many military vehicles ablaze.” He also noted that the town was attacked before the military camp, underscoring the widespread nature of the assault.
The Bama LGA Chairman, Modu Ali Gujja, visited the military authority to offer condolences and support, even announcing a N500,000 compensation for each family of the civilian victims. Yet, a press statement regarding his visit notably “did not disclose the outcome of the meeting” with military authorities, leaving many to wonder what was discussed behind closed doors.
A Community in Fear and Flight
Beyond the numbers, the human cost is undeniable. Many residents have fled Banki, seeking refuge across the border in Cameroon, a desperate measure that speaks volumes about their fear. A resident, whose cousin is among the injured receiving treatment in Cameroon, confirmed that while the government has visited and offered reassurances, the community remains deeply shaken.
The persistent attacks have pushed residents to their breaking point. Bila Abdullahi, a local, voiced the collective desperation: “Something has to be done. In the last two weeks, they attacked Darajamal, which is not far from us and killed many people. Now, they have attacked us. Who knows if they will return? Who even knows if they have not surrounded Bama? There is the need for more military support in our local government to ensure the protection of people.” He also appealed for more assistance for the survivors.
The Call for Clarity and Enhanced Security
The inconsistencies between official declarations and local observations foster an environment of distrust and anxiety. While immediate needs include medical care for the injured and support for displaced families, the deeper demand from the people of Bama LGA is clear: transparency and enhanced security. They need to know the full extent of what happened in Banki, and they desperately need more troops and equipment to prevent future tragedies.
As Banki grapples with its wounds, the cries for help and clarity echo far beyond its besieged borders, a poignant reminder that even amidst official reassurances, the truth on the ground often tells a much more complex and painful story.
