By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has vowed to go after individuals and groups providing shelter, sympathising, and serving as informants to terrorists, describing them as “enemies of the state.”
Zulum stated this on Thursday, March 19, during a statewide broadcast in Maiduguri, saying their actions betray the collective peace of the state and will no longer be tolerated, as the government will hunt them down to face the full wrath of the law.
He condemned the recent resurgence of insecurity in parts of the state, adding that the attacks are a direct consequence of the sustained and aggressive military operations being conducted across the theatre.
“The recent spike in activity by these criminal elements is a direct consequence of the sustained and aggressive military operations being conducted across the theatre. These operations have dislodged the criminals, forcing them to flee and seek respite by infiltrating our communities.
“However, I want to reassure you that the worst days are over. We have been constantly assessing the situation, and a robust, coordinated response is already in motion. These cowardly elements who seek to disturb our peace will obtain no sanctuary in Borno State. We will deal decisively with their recent resurgence.
“Furthermore, let me issue a stern warning to any individual or group that aids or collaborates with these criminals. To those who feed them with information, shelter them and their sympathisers, and provide logistical support, your time is up.
“You are not patriots; you are enemies of the state. You will be hunted down and made to face the full wrath of the law. Your actions betray our collective peace, and we will no longer tolerate them,” Zulum said.
Recall that suspected suicide bombers had, on Monday, March 16, detonated explosives at three locations in Maiduguri, including the Monday Market axis, the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office Flyover area, claiming 23 lives and injuring 108 others
The governor further noted that his administration has been committed to ensuring peace and prosperity in the state in the face of security challenges.
He said, “Over the past seven years, we have worked tirelessly to restore peace and prosperity to this 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.”
He said that through a combination of consultations and collective planning, with the strong support of the security agencies and the civilian JTF, the state has achieved some measure of success and peace.
“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.
“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,” Zulum added.
The governor, however, called for continuous support from residents, assuring that his administration will not relent in ensuring the safety of citizens.
