Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has cautioned residents of Maiduguri to remain vigilant during the Eid period, following intelligence reports of potential security threats.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, the governor revealed that two suspected suicide bombers are still at large after recent attacks in the state.
Zulum urged residents to exercise heightened caution, particularly in crowded places such as prayer grounds, markets, and social gatherings, which are typically busy during Eid celebrations.
“We are calling on people to be extra careful. Security agencies are doing their best, but citizens must also take responsibility by staying alert and reporting any suspicious movements,” he said.
The governor also shed light on why the state continues to face persistent threats from Boko Haram, despite years of military operations against the insurgents.
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According to him, the insurgency has evolved over time, with fighters adopting new tactics, including sporadic attacks and the use of suicide bombers, making it more difficult to completely eliminate the threat.
He noted that while significant progress has been made in reclaiming territories previously controlled by insurgents, challenges such as porous borders, limited resources, and the need for sustained military and humanitarian efforts continue to hamper the pursuit of total victory.
Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies and ensuring residents’ safety, while also calling for stronger collaboration between the government and local communities.
The warning comes amid renewed concerns over security in the Northeast, as residents prepare to celebrate Eid under tight security surveillance.
