A deadly Boko Haram attack on a military base in Marte, Borno, has triggered fear and desertions among soldiers, raising concerns over operational security and morale within the Nigerian Army amid intensifying insurgent activities.
- Boko Haram insurgents killed five soldiers, looted weapons, and destroyed military facilities during the Monday attack.
- Sources claim some troops fled their posts and returned to their hometowns, citing fear and betrayal.
- The military blames regional Sahel instability and evolving terrorist tactics, including the use of armed drones.
"Some of our men just left everything and went home," a soldier confided anonymously. "After the base was overrun and everything destroyed, they felt abandoned and betrayed—especially by someone we once trusted who helped the insurgents."
As insecurity spreads and morale dips, will military restructuring and better support for frontline soldiers be enough to turn the tide against Boko Haram—and restore faith in the fight?
