By Cross Udo, Abuja
Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, has vowed that no local government area of Borno State would be allied to be under the control of Boko Haram insurgents and the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The Governor also called on the federal government, the armed forces and other security agencies to rise and defend the local government areas in the state from attacks from terrorist groups.
Zulum spoke yesterday after meeting behind closed doors with President Tinubu on the worsening security situation occasioned by the resurgence of terrorist attacks in the North East and Borno state in particular.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Governor said he was at the seat of power to brief Tinubu on the security situation in his state.
He said, “I came to brief him (President Tinubu) on the security station in the North East and in particular in Borno State. This is the main reason why I came. You have heard it all that within the last few days things are not getting very well in Northern Nigeria, particularly in the North East.
“I’ve been away from some affected local government areas for about one week. We are trying to see how to reduce the incendiary attacks on military formations and others. So, I came and briefed Mr. President on how best we can, the state and the federal will work together to reduce the problems we face.”
Asked about the new development that will checkmate this situation, Zulum said, “Honestly speaking, we made a plea to the federal government of Nigeria, and I believe within the last couple of days, the Nigerian armed forces have taken some certain decisions that will curtail the imminence of the insurgency, and I believe something shall be done.
“Most importantly, some plans are underway by the federal government, especially the establishment of forest guards. That will be a game-changer.
“Above all, as we have said it all, some of the Boko Haram and ISWAP members are using some sophisticated weapons. I believe the federal government is also working in this direction.
“But by and large, the President has assured me that they will do everything to control the situation, and I believe the federal government will do something.
“On my part, as the Governor of Borno State, I will not relent in my effort to strengthen the resilience of our community and get our volunteers so that the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces shall be complemented. So far, so good. This is what is happening.
“And a few days ago, I made a call that no local government shall be allowed to be taken over by Boko Haram or ISWAP members. It will never happen now.
*Urges armed forces to rise, and defend council areas
“So, I’m calling the Nigerian Armed Forces, the civilian authorities, and all those concerned to rise to the matter and defend our local government areas.
“I believe, inshallah, with the support of the Nigerian Army, with the support of the Armed Forces, we will not leave a single local government to fall into the hands of the insurgents.”
