BBOG expresses shock over death of officer

Ali, who was also known as the Lord of War, was loved by his men, and described as a brave and gallant soldier.

Condolence messages have poured in from Nigerians and notable politicians across the country.

President Buhari, who described the Late Ali as a brave soldier, said their sacrifices will not be in vain.

BBOG, in a statement signed by its spokesman, Sesugh Akume, said “The news of the death of the Commanding Officer of the 272 Task Force Tank Battalion, Lt-Col Muhammed Abu Ali, a highly-rated, young officer and four other members of his team, in a separate incident at Mallam Fatori, is unfortunate and saddening. We send our heartfelt condolences especially to their families, and the Nigerian military.”

Akume also called on the military authorities to list the names of all the soldiers who have lost their lives in the war against terrorism, so Nigerians can honour them.

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He also said “I want to refresh our memories and to again place on the record that BBOG it was who kept insisting that the public should be told when our troops fall so that we can mourn and celebrate them. When they tried and said ‘some’ we insisted that we wanted exact numbers and their names. Well, we don’t get exact numbers but at least we do get numbers, instead of ‘some’ or ‘a few’. Today we can place a name to the face of the gallant Lt-Col Abu Aliwho died sacrificing to keep us free of terrorists and insurgents, and help bring back our girls.”

Lt.-Col. Muhammad Abu Ali, who led the operation to recapture Baga, was killed by members of the Boko Haram sect during an ambush on Friday, November 4, 2016.