LIVE UPDATES
BORNO, Nigeria - Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has expressed concern that only one out of 300 towns remains under control from Boko Haram insurgents in the Marte Local Government Area.
The governor raised this issue during his visit to the area on Sunday, urging the Federal Government to implement effective strategies to prevent the insurgents from fully seizing Marte town.
During his assessment of the challenges faced by Marte, Zulum highlighted the importance of community cooperation and resilience, as well as supporting security forces.
He pointed out that Marte had been resettled four years ago but was recently attacked, leading to its displacement once again.
“Approximately 20,000 residents fled Marte for Dikwa; this large number poses a threat, as remaining in camps could lead many young individuals to become susceptible to insurgent recruitment,” he warned.
He stated, “Marte Local Government comprises over 300 towns and villages, and we are left with only one town. If we fail to secure this, we risk losing the entire area to the insurgents, which would be unacceptable.
I urge the federal government and the Nigerian Army to collaborate with us to secure this single town within the LGA.”
Despite the displacement, he noted that many residents have begun to return with the assistance of security forces and volunteers.
“Thanks to the support of the Nigerian Army and volunteers, we returned to Marte yesterday and spent the night there. The community is now being resettled for the second time. My plea to the federal government and the Nigerian Army is to do everything possible to maintain our presence in this town,” he added.
The governor reiterated his commitment to aiding security forces in achieving lasting peace in Borno State, stating, “As the governor, I will do everything I can to support our brave military in their mission to secure lasting peace in our cherished state.”
