Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has attributed the ongoing insecurity in the state’s border communities to inadequate military protection.
He expressed deep concern over the security gaps that have left residents vulnerable to repeated assaults by Boko Haram insurgents.
During a visit on Sunday to Kirawa, a community within the Gwoza local government area, Zulum highlighted the severity of the situation.
Kirawa has recently endured multiple attacks, prompting many inhabitants to seek refuge across the border in Cameroon.
The governor called on the Federal Government and military leadership to urgently station troops in critical border towns such as Kirawa, Wulgo, Baga, Damasak, and Malam Fatori to curb further violence.
Zulum revealed that he had previously alerted military officials about the risks of leaving these border settlements unprotected, but regretted that his appeals were largely ignored.
However, in response to the persistent threats, he convened a meeting with the theatre commander of Operation Hadin Kai, the General Officer Commanding the Nigerian Army’s 7th Division, and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) commander. They collectively agreed to deploy soldiers to Kirawa in the near future.
“Kirawa was founded approximately seven years ago with assistance from Cameroonian troops, but unfortunately, insurgents displaced these forces several months ago,” the governor explained.
“I have formally informed the Nigerian military about the dangers posed by the lack of security in these border towns.”
“Communities like Wulgo, Kirawa, Baga, Damasak, and Malam Fatori are strategically important and must be safeguarded. Sadly, my requests for their protection have not been adequately addressed.”
“Recently, terrorists attacked Kirawa, destroying property and vehicles, including heavy machinery. Thankfully, only two lives were lost, but the damage was extensive.”
“We have all agreed that the Nigerian Army will deploy troops to Kirawa as soon as possible.”
“Additionally, we are committed to strengthening our civilian Joint Task Force and local vigilante groups by equipping them with necessary resources to defend the community.”
“Furthermore, we are exploring the acquisition of advanced technological tools to enhance security across the region,” Governor Zulum assured.
