The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum has expressed concern over the recent upsurge in Boko Haram attacks, which he said had led to the insurgents dislodging military formations in the state.
Addressing a crucial security meeting in Maiduguri on Tuesday, Zulum called on the Federal Government to increase its security attention to the North-East region.
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The governor described the security situation in the state as “deteriorating” and requested the deployment of attack helicopters to provide aerial support against insurgents when they attack civilians in the state.
He also explained the urgent need for the Federal Government to provide more sophisticated military equipment to the army and police to effectively tackle the Boko Haram insurgents.
While commending President Bola Tinubu and all security agencies in the state, including the military, police, DSS and CJTF for their efforts, Zulum stressed that the North-East was not receiving the “utmost security attention” required.
He highlighted Borno’s border with Chad, Cameroon, and Niger, noting the potential for criminals to infiltrate Nigeria through these neighbouring countries.
Zulum acknowledged the efforts of troops on the frontline but urged for more decisive action against the Boko Haram insurgency, which he said had led to the displacement of military bases in areas like Baga and Wulgo villages.
He called on the military to take the offensive and engage the insurgents directly.
Reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of internally displaced persons, Governor Zulum vowed to continue the resettlement process.
He also outlined plans for significant investment in infrastructure and agriculture to revive the state after years of conflict.
The governor also directed security agencies to implement measures to curb the activities of scavengers stealing state assets. With the approaching rainy season, he called for stricter enforcement of urban planning to prevent flooding.
Zulum further urged security forces to take strong action against criminals, some of whom he said were foreigners, and called for the deportation of non-Nigerian criminals.
He expressed sadness over the vandalism of government properties and directed that the theater commander must approve any removal of properties from the state.
The Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Al-amin Umar Garbai Elkanemi, praised Governor Zulum for his frank assessment of the security situation.
He revealed that Abadam, Guzamala, and Marte Local Government Areas in northern Borno remained largely inaccessible due to Boko Haram’s presence and pleaded with the Federal Government and military to end the insurgency.
“We are appealing to the FG to assist us and do something about it, especially the military and paramilitary. We are not saying they are doing well, but we are calling for them to do more,” the Shehu said.
He also mentioned Kukawa, Mafa, Monguno, Mairari, and Kaleri as areas of concern.
The security meeting was attended by the Borno Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur; Borno SSG, Bukar Tijjani; Borno Commissioner of Information and Internal Security; the Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammadu Yusufu; GOC 7 Division, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Haruna; and other top security officials.
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