Terrorism: FG Promises Enhanced Military Operations

By Ayodele Oni

Six days after the horrific attack on Borno State by terrorists, the Federal Government has reacted to it.

The reaction came through Vice President Kashim Shettima who pledged  that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration will stop at nothing to bring an end to terrorism in the country.

Shettima is the immediate past Governor of the State.

The Federal Government came under strong condemnation for its silence since the attack that took the lives of 65 people in one fell swoop, including five soldiers, and even attracted a reaction from the United Nations.

Nigerians, especially the opposition, demanded commitment from the Federal Government to end the carnage in the country.

Shettima, who spoke on Monday, through Stanley Nkwocha, his Media Aide, assured enhanced military operations against all terrorist activities in Nigeria.

The terrorist attack claimed many lives in Darajamal community, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State. He condoled with the Government and people of the State.

The Vice President reiterated President Tinubu’s directive to the Armed Forces to review security operations, including the deployment of advanced military hardware and surveillance equipment to eliminate terrorist groups across the country.

In his condolence message which was posted on X, Shettima described the incident as a profound loss to both the state and the nation.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum @GovBorno, the people of Borno State, and the Nigerian military over the tragic loss of our compatriots.

“These deaths have left the entire nation in collective grief, but we are confident that justice will be served for the bereaved families,” the Vice President stated.

VP Shettima expressed confidence in the Armed Forces’ capacity to overcome the security challenges facing the state, citing President Tinubu’s approval for the acquisition of additional drones and his directive for all security agencies to intensify and review their operational strategies.

The Vice President highlighted the Federal Government’s  consideration of establishing State Police, emphasizing President Tinubu’s position that security challenges in some Nigerian states require specialized units that understand local terrain, culture, and can effectively network at the grassroots level.

He offered prayers for the bereaved families and assured both the state government and affected families of continued Federal Government support in addressing the security situation.

To stem the killings, a Northern Group has asked for the removal from office of Service Chiefs and the shake-up of the entire security architecture. Instead of getting better, the group said, insecurity is getting worse.