President Muhammadu Buhari has said Nigeria would continue to celebrate the gallantry and sacrifices of Colonel Abu Ali and other soldiers killed in the course of prosecuting the war against terror.
According to a statement by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, their sacrifices would continue to be in the minds of all Nigerians for whom they laid down their lives.
President Buhari said he was shocked by the news of the officer’s death along with other gallant soldiers during an encounter with the Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.
“A courageous commander does not only give orders, but also joins his men to fight the battle, no matter the risks or the obvious danger.
“The late Colonel Abu Ali was an extraordinary officer who inspired respect and adoration among those he commanded.
“One of the greatest attributes of a war hero is the ability to help your troops overcome fear in the face of danger.”
The President said the late Ali and his others had brought glory to the army and the country for paying the supreme price.
He noted that their heroic sacrifices were “so immeasurable that no words can do justice to their patriotism and remarkable courage.”
Buhari was said to have called late Ali’s father, Brig.-Gen. Abu Ali (retd.), to console the family and reassured them that the death of Ali and others in battle would never go in vain.”
He then called on members of the armed forces not to let the tragic incident to dampen their morale and spirit, adding that under no circumstances should the Boko Haram terrorists be allowed to destroy the will of our troops.
He said, “Evil should not be given any chance to defeat good and humanity, and that members of our armed forces should remain formidably united in the war against terrorism.”
Meanwhile, the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Mohammed Bello and the Minister of State Solid Minerals Development, Baba Buhari, will represent the Federal Government at Ali’s burial sheduled for Monday.
