By Uche Mbah
Islamic State of West Africa, ISWAP, still operate and collect taxes from residents of Southern Borno, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has said.
Besides, Abadam and Guzamala Local Government Areas in Borno state have been under the control of Boko Haram terrorist group.
By admitting this, Zulu only confirmed what has been public knowledge, but which the Federal Government continues to deny. Instead, the FG, has continued to propagate the lie that 18 LGA’s in Borno were under Boko Haram control before the President Muhammadu Buhari when, in fact, election was held in all Borno State’s LGAs in 2015. All the LGAs were won by the APC during the Presidential/NASS and Governorship/House of Assembly elections.
Speaking during a courtesy call on him by Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Mohammed Ali Ndume, other Senators and Military Officers, Zulum said though the State is gradually returning to peace, two Local Government Areas are still under the control of Boko Haram.
“I am pleased to inform you that we have started witnessing gradual return of peace, but more needs to be done, because, presently, Guzamala and Abadam Local Government Areas are still under the control of Boko Haram”, he said.
“Although, the current Service Chiefs, the Theatre Commander, and indeed our General Officer Commanding 7 Division are up and doing. We want to commend the military and other para military personnel for their gallant efforts to see to the end of terrorism in this part of the country.
“Unfortunately, the Government and people of Borno state, especially those from Southern and Northern parts of the state are worried over the increasing number of ISWAP groups who have been terrorizing their communities.
“Just few days ago, I received a security report that in some
communities of Mandaragirau axis in Biu Local Government Area, there are reports that over 500 Boko Haram/ISWAP groups have been converging with over 300 motorcycles and even celebrating parties/marriages amongst themselves without confrontation.
“ISWAP are more equipped, sophisticated, intelligent and dangerous as they grow from strength to strength.
“ISWAP are collecting taxes along major roads in Damboa and other axis in southern Borno. It is very unfortunate.
“But the good news is that about 11 local Government areas of Gwoza, Bama, Marte, Monguno, Kaga, Gubio, Mafa, Dikwa, Ngala and host of others are becoming more peaceful than before, and this could be attributed to about 20,000 surrendered members of Boko Haram who are now in our custody.
”I want to use this opportunity to solicit for prayers from all and sundry for total restoration of peace not only in Borno state, but the country as a whole.” Zulum said.
