Senator Ali Ndume has strongly condemned the escalating insecurity in Borno State, particularly the alarming rise in Boko Haram attacks that are wreaking havoc across the region. Ndume confirmed that recent assaults on military formations in both Northern and Southern Borno have resulted in the tragic deaths of two soldiers.
“This situation is becoming unbearable. The renewed Boko Haram attacks in Borno, especially in the Southern Borno Senatorial District, are truly devastating,” Ndume lamented. He mentioned that many communities, including Gwoza, Askira-Uba, Chibok, Damboa, Biu, and Hawul, have been grappling with persistent attacks, destruction, and widespread looting of properties, all while security forces have failed to mount any significant counteractions.
Ndume also expressed concerns about the timing of these attacks, which come just as Governor Babagana Zulum is making efforts to reopen the Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu Road, a vital route connecting five local government areas in his constituency to the Borno State capital. The ongoing violence has rendered this important road unsafe, forcing travelers from Biu, Hawul, Shani, Bayo, Kwaya Kusar, and neighboring areas to take a detour through Gombe State, making the journey over 12 hours long instead of the usual two.
“This is extremely concerning. The situation is deteriorating. The only safe alternative route, the Maiduguri-Damaturu-Buni Yadi-Biu road, is now unsafe as well. This leaves people with no choice but to endure a much longer, dangerous route through Gombe,” he explained.
Ndume also shared disturbing reports of recent attacks. “Just yesterday, I was informed that Boko Haram terrorists launched an attack on an army formation in Wajirko, located in the Damboa Local Government Area. There was also an explosion from a landmine planted along the same road that claimed the lives of some soldiers. Tragically, the Brigade Commander of Operation Hadin Kai was among the victims, sustaining injuries from the blast.”
The senator’s remarks highlight the grim reality facing Borno, where the insurgency has raged for more than a decade. In addition to the Wajirko assault, reports indicate that Boko Haram terrorists simultaneously attacked military formations in Wulgo village in Gamboru Ngala, a border town. Both formations, which host multinational troops from Nigeria and Cameroon, were caught off guard, leading to the disbandment of military forces in the region.
With Boko Haram’s continued onslaught, Borno State remains under severe threat, and the local population, as well as military personnel, are paying a heavy price.
