Tensions have grown between Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and the Federal Government regarding the security situation in Borno, following a series of renewed Boko Haram attacks in the region.
Governor Zulum expressed his concern on Tuesday during a Special Expanded Security Meeting held at the Government House in Maiduguri. He stated that despite ongoing support from the state government to military forces, Boko Haram’s activities have intensified in recent weeks, especially in rural communities.
“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,” the governor said.
These remarks came after multiple attacks in March, including assaults on military bases in Wajirko and Wulgo. Reports indicate that during these operations, some soldiers were killed or injured, and troops were forced to abandon their positions.
Earlier in January, at least 40 farmers were killed and many others abducted in Kukawa Local Government Area by insurgents suspected to be members of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Governor Zulum noted that despite his administration’s heavy investment in supporting the military, the resurgence of violence is alarming. He stated that recent attacks in Damboa, Gwoza, Gamboru Ngala, and other areas suggest a major setback in efforts to restore lasting peace in the region.
He added, “More efforts have to be put in place through equipping and deploying of technological warfare to stem the tide of renewed attacks bedevilling parts of the sahelian Borno which shares international borders with three African countries of Chad, Niger and Cameroon.”
In response, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that security agencies are working relentlessly to bring the situation under control. He noted that progress has been made in the past 18 months and emphasized that cooperation from state governments is essential.
“The Tinubu administration is committed to eradicating acts of banditry and terrorism across the country,” Idris said. “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.’’
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters also defended the efforts of troops in the region. Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, said, “The military is sacrificing a lot, and our efforts should be appreciated. We are doing our best. We are doing what we are supposed to do, and we are still doing it.”
However, security experts like Brig. Gen. Peter Aro (retd.) believe the governor’s warning should not be ignored. He noted that rural communities continue to suffer from frequent insurgent attacks, which contradict the narrative of improving security.
“There is no victory in propaganda while citizens die in silence,” he said.
The Shehu of Borno, Abubakar El-Kanemi, also shared his concern. He noted that some local governments, such as Guzamala, Marte, and Abadam, remain under Boko Haram control, and civil authority has not yet returned to these areas.
