ISWAP Are More Equipped, Intelligent And Now Celebrating Marriages, Collecting Taxes Without Confrontation — Borno Governor
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has lamented the manner at which Boko Haram terrorists operated openly without confrontation by the armed forces.
Zulum stated this on Wednesday during a meeting held at the Government House, Maiduguri, with lawmakers and some military personnel.
He added that the terrorists have also started taxing people along major roads in Damboa and other axis in Southern Borno.
He said, “Presently, Guzamala and Abadam local government areas are still under the control of Boko Haram.
“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 terrorising their communities.
“Just a few days ago, I received a security report that in some communities of Mandaragirau axis in Biu Local Government Area, over 500 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have been converging there with over 300 sponsored motorcycles. Unperturbed, they are busy celebrating parties/marriages amongst themselves without confrontation.
“ISWAP are more equipped, sophisticated, intelligent and dangerous as they grow from strength to strength. They are also 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 others are becoming more peaceful than before. 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.”