A recent graduate named Baba Alaji, who had just completed his studies at the University of Maiduguri, met a devastating fate as he fell victim to an ambush by suspected Boko Haram terrorists. This heart-wrenching incident unfolded on the Gwoza-Limankara-Uvaha road, located in the Gwoza local government area of Borno State, on a fateful Saturday, September 23, 2023. The attack transpired at approximately 5:00 PM, targeting a convoy of military vehicles that were escorting motorists along this vital route.
These military personnel, alongside members of the civilian Joint Task Force (JTF), were providing essential security to passengers traveling to various destinations, including Gwoza, Askira-Uba LGA in Borno, and the northern parts of Adamawa State. However, the attackers not only unleashed a barrage of gunfire upon the convoy but also set ablaze five commercial vehicles, one of which was a security patrol vehicle. The aftermath of this ruthless attack left numerous motorists and passengers either abducted or missing in action, amplifying the tragedy.
Baba Alaji had embarked on a journey to the University of Maiduguri on Friday, September 22, 2023, filled with hope and dreams of a promising future as he went to collect his statement of result. Tragically, he was en route to his home the following day when the terrorists launched their deadly assault on unsuspecting motorists.
In the wake of this heart-wrenching incident, Baba Alaji was laid to rest at Gwange cemetery following a funeral prayer held at the University of Maiduguri central mosque on Sunday morning, September 24, 2023. Friends, colleagues, and coursemates have taken to social media platforms, particularly Facebook, to express their profound grief and offer condolences as they mourn the untimely loss of a promising young individual.
One of his friends, Nuruddeen Michika, shared these words on Facebook: “Collected his statement of result day before yesterday, on his way back yesterday Boko Haram terrorists Gun him down to dead and today he is no more. Let’s include death to our plans. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. May Allah Grant you jannatul firdous Baba Alaji.”
Another individual expressed their condolences, saying, “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun! To the entire Michika community, the University of Maiduguri, and all the affected families. I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of my brother Baba Alaji and the other commuters who fell victim to the heinous attack by Boko Haram terrorists along Gwoza. Words cannot express the pain and grief we are feeling.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to all the families who have lost their loved ones in this senseless act of violence. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time.
“I also join you in urging the Nigerian authorities to prioritize and enhance security measures to prevent such devastating incidents from happening again. Let us stand together and demand the safety and security that every citizen deserves. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may you find strength and solace in the midst of this tragedy.”
Images from the incident, as well as heartfelt messages and condolences, have been shared on social media platforms as friends and well-wishers come to terms with the loss of Baba Alaji and the other victims of this tragic attack.
