Zulum urges FG to prevent B/Haram takeover of Marte, declares day of fasting

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has appealed to the federal government to take urgent and decisive action to prevent Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents from recapturing Marte town in northern Borno. Zulum, who spent the night in Marte on Saturday coordinating security logistics, expressed concern over the recent attack that forced about 20,000 residents to flee […]

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has appealed to the federal government to take urgent and decisive action to prevent Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents from recapturing Marte town in northern Borno.

Zulum, who spent the night in Marte on Saturday coordinating security logistics, expressed concern over the recent attack that forced about 20,000 residents to flee to Dikwa.

He warned that if Marte — the only remaining community in the LGA — falls, the entire local government area could be lost to insurgents.

“Marte was resettled four years ago, but has now been ransacked again. We must hold this ground,” Zulum stated, calling for the deployment of more troops and improved logistics.

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During a statewide broadcast, the governor declared Monday, May 19, a day of voluntary fasting and prayer for peace in Borno and Nigeria.

He urged citizens to seek divine intervention and unity in confronting the state’s security challenges.

Zulum said his administration is working closely with the federal government and security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, bolster community vigilance, and reinforce volunteer security forces such as the CJTF, hunters, and vigilantes.

He also cautioned communities against aiding insurgents, stressing that collaboration with the enemy undermines collective efforts.

The governor acknowledged recent water shortages in Maiduguri, caused by damage to pipelines during last year’s floods, and assured that restoration efforts are underway.

To combat rising urban crime, Zulum announced the reconstitution of the Anti-Social Vices Committee.

“We must not allow criminals to destabilise our progress,” he warned.

The governor concluded by commiserating with the families of fallen soldiers, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to lasting peace and development in Borno.