Abdur Rahman Alfa Shaban
Nigeria is mourning a soldier described as its finest and bravest anti Boko Haram combatant. Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Abu-Ali died in an ambush laid for his troops by the insurgents last week.
Abu Ali will be given a national burial in the administrative capital, Abuja on Monday together with others who ‘paid the supreme price’ in the fight against the terrorist group.
#RIPmuhammedAbuAli A.K.A Sarkin Yaki (Lord of War). Rest in Jannah @HQNigerianArmy
— Mansur Mamman (@mansur_mamman) November 5, 2016
I received the news of the deaths with shock. Lt. Col. Abu Ali was an extraordinary officer who inspired respect among those he commanded.
— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) November 6, 2016
Local media portals report that in 2015, Abu Ali got an accelerated promotion from the Army Chief, Tukur Buratai, for his gallantry and efficiency on the battlefield. An expert in handling armour tanks, he was the commanding officer of the Army’s 272 Tank Battalion.
I call on members of the Armed Forces to not allow this tragic incident dampen their spirits and resolve. Evil will not triumph over good.
He was killed at Mallam Fatori, a major Boko Haram stronghold in the far north of Borno State – home to the insurgency. Sources say he was hit by several bullets as he tried to repel an ongoing attack in the town.
Our deep prayers and thoughts to Family of gallant officer, Lt. Col. Muhammed Abu Ali & @HQNigerianArmy Incredible sacrifice. #BeComforted🙏
— Oby Ezekwesili (@obyezeks) November 5, 2016
President Buhari whiles mourning the fallen soldier said he had personally sent condolences to the family of the soldier and ordered his Chief of Staff to represent him at today’s burial ceremony.
‘‘No words can do justice to the patriotism and remarkable courage of these soldiers, who laid down their lives for Nigeria. I call on members of the Armed Forces to not allow this tragic incident dampen their spirits and resolve. Evil will not triumph over good,’‘ Buhari said.
Nigerians have expressed their sadness and condolences at the death of the soldier using a twitter hashtag #RIPMuhammadAbuAli
#RIPmuhammedAbuAli https://t.co/yCid3MVN5M
— Nigerian Army (@HQNigerianArmy) November 5, 2016
PHOTONEWS: Lt. Col Abu Ali Nigerian army officer noted for his bravery and gallantry who was killed by Boko Haram terrorists in Borno state pic.twitter.com/1JONN63dra
— Sahara Reporters (@SaharaReporters) November 5, 2016
I join Nigerians all over the country to mourn the passing of a hero, Lt. Col. Mohammed Abu Ali. May the Almighty grant him Aljanah Firdaus. pic.twitter.com/LCXwalpMnj
— Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (@bukolasaraki) November 6, 2016
