Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has fiercely condemned the renewed and escalating wave of deadly assaults unleashed by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) across several communities in the state, describing the acts as “cowardly, heartbreaking, and utterly reprehensible.”
In a heartfelt statement issued by his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, the governor extended profound sympathies to the bereaved families, wounded victims, and the entire people of Borno, declaring that the state would never bow to the reign of terror.
The governor’s condemnation follows a disturbing resurgence of insurgent attacks targeting civilians, security personnel, and critical infrastructure in areas including Maiduguri-Damboa Road, Marte, Chibok, Gwoza, and Kala Balge.
One of the most harrowing incidents occurred on May 12, when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted along the Maiduguri-Damboa highway detonated, killing two education officers from the Damboa Local Education Authority. The victims were reportedly on their way to Maiduguri to participate in the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) examination, underscoring the indiscriminate brutality of the attackers.
In addition to the slain educators, several gallant soldiers and innocent civilians also lost their lives in the brutal assaults, sparking renewed outrage and grief across the state. Eyewitnesses and local reports painted a grim picture of fear and displacement, as communities reel from the repeated incursions.
Governor Zulum, visibly shaken by the scale of the attacks, declared:
> “The recent tragic loss of our education staff, gallant troops, and innocent civilians is a painful reminder of the enormous security challenges we continue to grapple with. Yet, I remain more determined than ever to support our military, security agencies, and the brave volunteer forces standing between our people and anarchy. We shall not falter.”
Highlighting his unwavering commitment, Zulum referenced his recent visit to Gwoza, where he met with frontline troops and residents of Izge community, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to rebuilding shattered communities, strengthening local defense structures, and providing critical support to security operations.
Despite the palpable fear caused by these renewed attacks, the governor called on the resilient people of Borno to remain unbroken.
> “This is but a partial eclipse. We have seen darker days — and we emerged stronger. By the grace of Allah, we shall overcome this as well,” he assured.
“This is but a partial eclipse. We have seen darker days — and we emerged stronger. By the grace of Allah, we shall overcome this as well,” he assured.
Governor Zulum also offered heartfelt prayers for the souls of the departed and extended his deepest condolences to their grieving families. He reiterated that peace, security, and justice remain at the heart of his administration’s priorities, pledging that no effort will be spared in the relentless pursuit of lasting stability in Borno State.
“Our resolve remains unshaken. We will not rest until every inch of our land is free from the grip of terror,” the governor concluded.
PIONEER NEWS 