SAN FRANCISCO, November 22, (THEWILL) – The Senate has suspended legislative activities for the day to honour fallen Soldiers sequel to a point of order raised by the deputy senate leader, Bala Na’Allah.

Prior to the call, Na’Allah revealed that his cousin, a Lieutenant Colonel Sakaba, was one of the soldiers who died in the recent attack by Boko Haram in Maiduguri.

He said the lieutenant was the commander of the team that was attacked by rampaging Boko Haram insurgents who overran a Nigerian Army battalion in Borno State on Sunday, killing the unit’s commander and dozens of soldiers.

A large cache of arms, ammunition and military equipment were carted away by Boko Haram fighters during the attack.

Na’Allah while asking that plenary be suspended, stated that the demand was not personal but to honour the commitment and contribution of Nigerian soldiers.

“About five days ago, a camp in Maiduguri was attacked by Boko-Haram and we were reported to have lost about 44 soldiers.

“I want it bring it to the notice of the Senate that Lieutenant Colonel Sakaba is my cousin and he was head of that team that was attacked and he lost his life.

“Unfortunately, he was one of the most dedicated soldiers I have ever met. Not because he is my relation but because I knew from his commitment on what he has gone through and his contribution to the Nigerian army,” he said.

In her remark, Senate minority leader, Biodun Olujimi, questioned the federal government over the recurring death of soldiers.

“There is something government is not telling us over the death of these soldiers. We must know what we are facing and the conditions for the people fighting for us.

“We should make sure this insurgency does not spread. Government must sit up. We cannot keep posing young men and women. I pray their families will be able to find succour.”

Before the Senate adjourned, it mandated its committee on the army to pay a condolence visit to families of the deceased and the Chief of Army Staff to investigate the situation and ascertain what military measures are in place to protect the soldiers.

The lawmakers also resolved to visit the soldiers at the war front. They further resolved that everyone should adopt one family of the soldiers killed and agreed to have a financial contribution to the families of the deceased.