Zulum Urges Community Support To Combat Boko Haram

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has Emphasised that collaboration between residents and the military is crucial in combating renewed Boko Haram attacks.

The governor stressed that the military alone can’t tackle the insurgency without community support.

Zulum said this on Thursday during his state-wide broadcast to the citizens of the state following the renewed Boko Haram attacks and Monday tripple suicide bombs attacks in Maiduguri Monday Market, the Post- Office area and the University of Maiduguri entrance gate that claimed 25 lives with several others injured.

LEADERSHIP reports that Governor Zulum was in Saudi Arabia for Lesser Hajj when some of the attacks and the suicide bombings occured .

The governor said , ” This fight is not the responsibility of the military alone; it is a collective effort. I must emphasise the importance of cordial, close collaboration with our military.

“They are here to protect us, and they need our eyes and our ears. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of our gallant soldiers, security personnel and our volunteer forces who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

“Fellow citizens, the recent resurgence of insecurity in parts of our dear state over the past few weeks is deeply concerning. As the chief security officer, let me assure you that the overall security environment, while tested, remains under control, and we are doing everything possible to protect lives and property.

“Over the past seven years, we have worked tirelessly to restore peace and prosperity to the great land and rebuild our state. Within the period, we have responded with prompt, positive actions on every occasion.

“We have not allowed the dark dreams of the wayward ones to take root, and instead, we have fostered hope and resilience among the communities affected by the conflict. Through a combination of consultations and collective planning, with the strong support of our security agencies and the civilian JTF, the Almighty Allah (SWT) has helped us achieve some measure of success and peace.

“We do not believe that the decrease in past attacks signals the end of the insurgency. No, it is not. In fact, at the leadership level, we are very conscious of the fact that much more needs to be done to permanently address the root of this madness and the menace of illogical attacks among our peace-loving people.”

Governor Zulum noted that the recent spike in activity by the criminal elements is a direct consequence of the sustained and aggressive military operations being conducted across the theatre, saying that the operations have dislodged the criminals, forcing them to flee and seek respite by infiltrating Borno communities.

He, however, reassured citizens that the worst days are over, adding that the administration have been constantly assessing the situation, and a robust, coordinated response is already in motion.

The governor added that these cowardly elements who seek to disturb peace of the people will obtain no sanctuary in Borno State.

“We will deal decisively with their recent resurgence. Fellow citizens, this fight is not the responsibility of the military alone; it is a collective effort. I must emphasise the importance of cordial, close collaboration with our military.

“They are here to protect us, and they need our eyes and our ears. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of our gallant soldiers, security personnel and our volunteer forces who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

“My heart also goes out to every civilian whose life has been disrupted by this situation. Your resilience is the bedrock of our state, and the power of prayer in unison is a weapon no enemy can withstand,” Zulum further said.