Public outcry As Appeal to redeploy celebrated special forces Commander LT. Col. Ishaya Aliyu Manga to Borno sparks fears, Controversy
By Passman Akpos
An appeal circulating online calling for the Defence Headquarters to redeploy renowned Special Forces Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ishaya Aliyu Manga, back to Borno State has ignited a wave of mixed reactions, caution, and emotional responses from Nigerians—especially residents of conflict-ridden communities in the North-East.
Lt. Col. Manga, widely praised for his fearless frontline leadership, previously led multiple successful operations against Boko Haram insurgents, including the recapture of strategic towns, dismantling of terrorist strongholds, and leading high-risk rescue missions. His record has earned him several military commendations and an enduring reputation among troops and civilians alike.
In Borno communities, his name is described as “written in gold,” with many residents insisting his courage “will never be forgotten.”
But the appeal for his redeployment—initially made by a support group, Military Kings and Queens—has now raised deep security concerns, prompting many Nigerians to warn against exposing operational details or endangering the officer’s life.
“This should stay within military formation, not social media” — Nigerians warn
Security-conscious Nigerians have questioned why sensitive operational demands are being posted publicly, insisting such exposure could compromise troop safety.
> “Keep some vital information about your operation off social media. There’s no problem redeploying anybody, but protect your officers,” one commenter cautioned.
Others outright rejected the appeal.
> “I reject the appeal. Una want make he go kpai there ba?”
> “Toh, dem don see his handwork—dem go find way to kpai am.”
Some pointed to past experiences, warning that publicly glorifying or announcing a commander’s movement could make him a target for terrorists.
> “This one wey una dey announce am public, enemy don know already. This could be a suicide mission.”
Calls for internal cleansing, modern gadgets, and better support
While acknowledging the officer’s bravery, some Nigerians demanded that the military must first “sanitize its system,” eliminate internal compromises, and provide proper equipment before deploying any top-performing commander.
> “Give him modern gadgets, air support, and defence systems. Don’t send him to fail.”
Others warned strongly that Nigeria must stop losing its best officers prematurely.
> “Send other able officers. No go kpai better officer the way una kpai Gen. Uba.”
> “Advice to this brave man—don’t go. They are targeting strong officers now.”
There were also emotional pleas for caution:
> “It’s better to pray for the living than pray for the dead. Don’t expose the ones we still love.”
Fears of terrorists monitoring viral posts
As the appeal continues spreading on social media, many are worried that insurgents—known to monitor online activities—may already be aware of Lt. Col. Manga’s potential redeployment.
> “Announcing his movement publicly is dangerous. Your enemy should never know your next step.”
A hero caught in the center of public fear and admiration
Lt. Col. Manga remains celebrated for his courage and loyalty, but the intense reactions highlight the growing mistrust, security lapses, and deep fear of losing competent officers in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency.
As the Defence Headquarters reviews deployment strategies, Nigerians are calling for discretion, protection of top-performing officers, and stronger military intelligence to prevent further casualties in the ongoing war against terrorism.
