By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has passionately appealed to the Federal Government (FG) to deploy decisive strategies to ensure Marte town in his state does not fall into the hands of Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents.
The terrorists launched a devastating attack on the town last Friday, reportedly destroying a military barracks, vehicles and stealing arms in the process.
Zulum, who was actively involved in coordinating security logistics till late in the night, weekend, undertook a tour to assess the challenges faced in Marte, while also exploring sustainable solutions to foster stability.
Before his arrival, Marte was completely deserted following the Boko Haram attack with thousands taking refuge in Dikwa town, according to statement by Zulum’s media aide, Abdurraman Bundi, Sunday.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, the governor emphasized that his visit to Marte was to foster community cooperation, resilience and continuous support to the security agencies.
“Marte was resettled about four years ago, but unfortunately, over the last three days, it was ransacked and was displaced again.
“About 20,000 people left Marte for Dikwa; this huge number is a threat as allowing them to stay in the camp may make most of the younger ones become vulnerable to recruitment by the insurgents.
“Alhamdulillah, we returned to Marte yesterday and spent the night with the support of the Nigerian Army and our volunteers. The community is now resettled for the second time.
“Still, my prayers to the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Nigerian Army are that we do everything possible to keep this town on the ground.
“Hitherto, Marte Local Government comprises over 300 towns and villages, now we have only one standing; if we cannot maintain this one, then we will lose the whole Local Government to the insurgents, which will be very obnoxious, and I think we will not allow this to happen.
“Therefore, I am calling on the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army so that we can put heads together and hold our ground for this single town in this LGA to remain,” he stated.
The Governor reiterated his commitment to security agencies attain lasting peace in Borno State, stating “on my part as the Governor of Borno State, I would do everything within my power to support our gallant military in their efforts towards lasting peace in our beloved state.”
