The President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government has responded to comments made by Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, suggesting that the state may be losing control to Boko Haram insurgents.
The government, through the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, disagreed with Zulum’s claim. The minister emphasised that the administration remains committed to combating terrorism and banditry across the nation.
He stated, “The Tinubu administration is committed to eradicating acts of banditry and terrorism across the country. The successes achieved by the security agencies in the last 18 months are an indication that, indeed, Nigeria is gradually returning to normalcy.”
“Government calls on all, especially the sub-national governments, to join hands to ensure rapid eradication of the remaining pockets of criminal elements wherever they may be.”
The Defence Headquarters also reacted, affirming that troops are making significant sacrifices and doing their best to restore peace in Borno and other troubled states.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, stressed the importance of recognising the military’s efforts. He also said that the military is sacrificing a lot in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Earlier, SaharaReporters
He cited recent Boko Haram attacks and the dislodgement of military formations in strategic areas such as Wajirko, Sabon Gari, Wulgo, and Izge as signs that the state may be losing control.
Speaking at a Special Expanded Security Meeting on Tuesday, Zulum condemned the continuous attacks and kidnappings, pointing out that these incidents are occurring almost daily without significant resistance from security forces.
He described the situation as a serious setback for both Borno and the wider North East region.
“As I address this important gathering today, it is unfortunate that the renewed Boko Haram attacks and kidnappings in many communities almost on a daily basis without confrontation signalled that Borno State is losing ground,” Zulum said.
The meeting was attended by Major General Abubakar Haruna, General Officer Commanding 7 Division, sector commanders, the Commissioner of Police, heads of other security agencies, and traditional rulers including the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, and the Shehu of Bama.
Zulum pointed to the recent dislodgement of military formations in Damboa Local Government Area (Wajirko and Sabon Gari), Gamboru Ngala Local Government Area (Wulgo), and Gwoza Local Government Area (Izge) as a deeply concerning development.
“While my administration has been very supportive of the military and other security agencies in the fight against Boko Haram, it is disheartening to note the recent attacks and dislodgement of military formations in Wajirko, Sabon Gari in Damboa, Wulgo in Gamboru Ngala, and Izge in Gwoza, along with the killing of innocent civilians and security agencies.
“This calls for serious concern and signals a setback in the fragile state of Borno and the North East,” he added.(SaharaReporters)
