The Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, has firmly denied reports suggesting that Boko Haram terrorists invaded Gwoza town in Borno State.
The traditional ruler stated that although some distant gunshots were heard after the Friday Jummat prayers, there was no actual attack on the town by the insurgents.
Gwoza, located about 136 kilometers from Maiduguri and sharing borders with the Mandara Mountains in Cameroon and the infamous Sambisa Forest, has long been considered a vulnerable area due to its proximity to key insurgent strongholds.
The monarch explained that initial fears arose when residents, alarmed by the sounds, began fleeing in panic, believing that terrorists had entered the town.
According to him, this resulted in a wave of confusion and fear among the locals. However, he noted that after consulting with the Brigade Commander and military officers from Operation Hadin Kai, there was no evidence of a Boko Haram presence or engagement within the town limits.
The Emir also mentioned that during the confusion, there were rumors of four individuals dressed in black clothing being spotted sneaking into one of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Gwoza. Despite these claims, he noted that the information remains unverified and has not been confirmed by security personnel.
To calm the situation and ensure safety, a curfew was imposed in Gwoza. The Emir noted that the curfew is aimed at helping security agencies carry out their search operations effectively and prevent any possible infiltration.
His words: “Wallahi, I felt disappointed when I saw people running and chanting that Boko Haram has invaded Gwoza. As far as I am concerned, there is no Boko Haram invasion or attack in Gwoza. Yes, people heard some sound of gunshots or explosions from a far distance on the outskirts of Gwoza, but from all indications, I was with the Brigade Commander, who also confirmed that there was nothing like the Boko Haram attack.”
“Troops are busy conducting search operations, but no any sign of attack in the town, the only rumours going round now was that, some people sighted four people in black cloths sneaking into one of the IDPs camp during the pandemonium. We have imposed curfew right now in Gwoza town to enable security agencies fish out any infiltration, maintain law and order”. He stated.
The Emir urged residents to remain calm and obey the curfew while investigations continue. He reassured them that the town remains under the protection of the military and that all necessary steps are being taken to keep Gwoza safe.
