Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has issued a stark warning that only one town remains under government control in Marte Local Government Area, as Boko Haram insurgents continue their offensive.
During a visit to the area on Saturday, Zulum appealed to the Federal Government for urgent and decisive action to prevent the complete fall of Marte to Boko Haram and its affiliate, ISWAP. The governor emphasized the need for collaborative strategies to defend the last standing town.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, he stated, “Marte was resettled about 4 years ago, but unfortunately, over the last three days, it was ransacked and was displaced again.”
He revealed that the renewed attacks by Boko Haram have forced around 20,000 residents to flee to Dikwa, raising concerns about the implications of hosting such a large displaced population.
“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,” Zulum warned.
He disclosed that of the over 300 towns and villages that made up Marte LGA, only one remains intact.
“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 said.
Despite the grim situation, Zulum noted a glimmer of hope, saying displaced residents have begun to return with the support of security personnel and community volunteers.
“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,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to restoring peace in Borno, he added, “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.”
