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Tag: Borno

  • Unexploded bomb recovered on farmland in Borno

    Unexploded bomb recovered on farmland in Borno

    An unexploded ordnance was on Monday recovered by operatives of the Borno State Police Command after it was found on a farmland in Dikwa Local Government Area of the state.

    The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, disclosed in a statement on Monday that the discovery followed a report from one Babagana Kachalla, who sighted a suspicious object identified as Cluster Bomb Unit (CBU) measuring approximately 2.2 meters in length and 30 centimetres in width, on his farmland.

    Daso said, “Upon receipt of the information, the Commissioner of Police, Borno State Command, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, promptly deployed the Commander of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Base 13, Maiduguri, alongside his team, to the location.”

    “In line with standard EOD-CBRN protocols, the area was professionally cordoned off. The EOD-CBRN operatives conducted in-situ demolition before the extraction of the cluster munitions plates,” Daso added.

    The police spokesman further noted that the operation was successfully carried out without incident.

    “Members of the community were sensitised on Explosive Ordnance Risk Awareness (EORA) to enhance their knowledge on safety precautions when such dangerous objects are discovered,” he said.

    Daso reiterated the command’s commitment to the safety and security of all residents of Borno State, urging members of the public to remain vigilant.

    “Members of the public are strongly advised to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious items or activities to the nearest police station,” the statement read.

  • SAD! Four die as bomb explosion reportedly hits Borno

    SAD! Four die as bomb explosion reportedly hits Borno

    A bomb explosion has reportedly killed four travellers in Borno State, with many others sustaining injuries.

    According to reports by local media, the bomb exploded around 3:00 pm on Wednesday along the Damboa-Maiduguri road.

    The incident involved a car carrying an unconfirmed number of passengers.

    Recall bomb explosions also occurred a few weeks ago along Damboa-Maiduguri road, killing seven people.

    The road is one of the major routes for terrorists, who often plant bombs to discourage other users.

    Security authorities are yet to confirm the incident at the time of filing this report.

  • Borno, FG review strategy to tackle resurgence of terrorist attacks

    Borno, FG review strategy to tackle resurgence of terrorist attacks

    Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno says his administration, in collaboration with the Federal Government, is reviewing strategies to confront the recent resurgence of attacks in parts of the state.

    Zulum announced this on Saturday during a statewide broadcast, where he reaffirmed his commitment to strengthen local security architecture, enhance intelligence gathering, and support frontline security personnel with necessary tools.

    “In recent months, I have held extensive consultations with our federal partners and the leadership of various security agencies.

    “I am pleased to inform you that the collaboration between Borno State and the Federal Government is stronger than ever.

    “Together, we are working on comprehensive strategies to strengthen our security architecture, enhance intelligence sharing, and equip our security agents with the necessary tools to confront the threats before us,” he said.

    The governor said that President Bola Tinubu and the Service Chiefs had given firm assurances to support Borno in addressing its security challenges.

    He reiterated the state’s resolve to reinforce volunteer forces, including the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), vigilantes, and hunters, as well as to improve community-based intelligence and early warning systems.

    “Let me warn against colluding with these armed groups, either individually or as a community, as they are our collective enemy,” he said.

    The governor also addressed the ongoing water scarcity in Maiduguri and its environs, attributing it to the destruction of key infrastructure caused by last year’s catastrophic flood.

    “I appeal for your patience and understanding as we finalise efforts to fully re-establish the water supply system,” he said.

    On rising criminal activities within Maiduguri metropolis, he announced the reconstitution of the Anti-Social Vices Committee, tasked with tackling all forms of violent crimes and maintaining public order.

    He called for unity among citizens, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and civil society groups to support peacebuilding initiatives in the state.

    “We are fully aware that the road to lasting peace is not an easy one. But with unity, perseverance and faith, we shall all overcome it, insha Allah,” he assured.

    Meanwhile, the governor called on residents of the state to observe a voluntary fast on Monday, May 19, to seek divine intervention for lasting peace and stability.

    “In light of our current security challenges, I am calling on all residents of Borno State to unite in a collective act of faith and solidarity,” he said.

    “Fasting is more than a personal spiritual act; it is a communal expression of our shared hope.

    “Through prayer and reflection, we can strengthen our unity, renew our resilience, and restore our collective purpose,” he added.

    The governor commiserated with the families of military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty and prayed for them  to bear the irreparable losses.

  • Senate urges Military to reinforce troops in Borno, Yobe to counter Boko Haram resurgence

    Senate urges Military to reinforce troops in Borno, Yobe to counter Boko Haram resurgence

    The Nigerian Senate has called on the military to urgently deploy more personnel—fully equipped and strategically positioned to Borno and Yobe states in the North-East to tackle the renewed threat posed by Boko Haram insurgents.

    This appeal followed the killing of 12 soldiers by insurgents in Marte, Borno State, and was made during Tuesday’s plenary session. The Senate also directed its Committees on Army and Air Force to oversee and ensure compliance with the directive.

    The resolution stemmed from a motion titled “The Resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and Yobe,” moved by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC-Borno), and co-sponsored by lawmakers representing the affected states.

    In presenting the motion, Senator Monguno recalled that just a few years ago, Boko Haram had control over two-thirds of Borno’s Local Government Areas. However, combined efforts by the military and the Civilian Joint Task Force eventually reclaimed those territories and restored a degree of peace in both Borno and Yobe.

    He explained that after this progress, the military shifted its tactical command to the North-West to address rising cases of kidnapping and banditry. Unfortunately, this redeployment has coincided with a resurgence of Boko Haram activities in the North-East, including the deadly May 12 attack in Marte.

    Senator Monguno raised alarm over the group’s renewed strength and evolving tactics, including the use of drones for surveillance and attacks, as well as the planting of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), which cause significant casualties and disrupt transportation.

    He stressed the urgent need for the military to return in full force to the North-East, with advanced technology and necessary equipment to combat the insurgents’ growing sophistication.

    “A robust military presence in the North-East is critical to containing the renewed threat of Boko Haram,” he emphasized.

    Following the debate, the Senate adopted the motion’s two resolutions through a voice vote presided over by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau.

  • ISWAP takes responsibility for Borno bombing as death toll rises to 26

    ISWAP takes responsibility for Borno bombing as death toll rises to 26

    The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for a deadly bomb attack near Rann, located in Kala-Balge Local Government Area of Borno State, which has now claimed 26 lives.

    The attack occurred around 11 a.m. on Friday along the Furunduma axis, where an improvised explosive device (IED) went off, initially killing 17 people. Among the deceased were four women, six children, and seven other passengers, according to eyewitnesses and security personnel.

    By Monday, more bodies were recovered from the surrounding bushland, pushing the total number of confirmed deaths to 26. A security source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that some of the victims were so badly burned they could not be identified.

    “As of the latest count, the death toll stands at 26, including the earlier reported women and children,” the source confirmed.

    ISWAP officially claimed responsibility for the attack in a Telegram statement posted on Tuesday, confirming the casualty figure.

    In a separate but related incident, two Nigerian soldiers were killed by a suspected landmine planted by insurgents along the Maiduguri-Damboa Road. Sources told Daily Trust that the explosion occurred near Nyeliri, a deserted village in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State.

    The District Head of Damboa, Alhaji Lawan Maina, confirmed the loss of the two soldiers.

    Attempts by Daily Trust to reach the Police Public Relations Officer of Borno State Command, ASP Kenneth Daso, for comment were unsuccessful by as he did not respond to phone calls or text messages.

     

     

  • Borno governor condemns deadly terrorist blast

    Borno governor condemns deadly terrorist blast

    Borno Governor, Babagana Zulum, has expressed sympathy for the victims of a bomb blast suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram insurgents along the Maiduguri–Damboa highway.

    The blast, believed to be caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), killed eight people and injured 21 others on Saturday. The targeted civilian vehicles were travelling along the highway.

    Fourteen of the injured victims sustained severe injuries, while seven others were treated for minor wounds at the State Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri.

    Zulum, who visited the victims, described the incident as regrettable, especially as Borno had not experienced an IED attack in over a year.

    “It is unfortunate this is happening now. We haven’t witnessed an IED attack for over a year,” Zulum said. He noted the road had been closed for a month.

    Zulum expressed grief over the loss of life and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Nigerian military and other security agencies.

    “I urge the Nigerian military and other security agencies to strengthen surveillance along the highway to prevent further attacks,” he said.

    The governor emphasised that Borno would continue working closely with the Nigerian military and federal government to tackle insurgency.

    “I assure the people of Borno that, ‘Insha Allah’, under my leadership, we will not allow the security situation to worsen,” Zulum added.

    He also pledged to enhance local security systems, including supporting the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and youth volunteers involved in counter-insurgency operations.

    Meanwhile, Zulum expressed satisfaction with the results of a recent meeting with military chiefs in Abuja, where concerns over the resurgence of Boko Haram activities were raised.

    “Our discussions during the security council were positive. We highlighted the resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and stressed the need for cooperation.

    “We met with the service chiefs in Abuja and received assurances from them that they would do everything possible to manage the situation,” Zulum added.

    The state government has called for greater cooperation between local intelligence networks and security agencies to improve early warning systems and prevent future attacks.

  • Police arrest 2 for murder of woman accused of witchcraft

    Police arrest 2 for murder of woman accused of witchcraft

    The Biu Police Area Command has detained two suspects in connection with the murder of a 50-year-old woman accused of witchcraft practices.

    The Commissioner of Police, Borno Command, Mr Yusuf Lawan confirmed the incident to NAN via telephone interview on Saturday.

    Lawan said the deceased, Hajara Saleh, was murdered on Feb 21, in Bantine community in Biu Local Government Area of Borno.

    He gave the names of the suspects as Ja’o Muhammad, Idrisa Muhammad and Ya’u Muhammad aged between 20 and 30 years.

    The commissioner said the suspects allegedly conspired to kill the victim, accusing her of practicing witchcraft and bringing misfortune to the community.

    Lawan said the woman sustained  injuries on her neck, legs, and hands, resulting to her death.

    He said that the police were alerted of the alleged crime by a residents of Dadinkowa Gunda ward who reported the incident at about 11:00 a.m.

    “Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered that the victim had already been buried according to Islamic rites by her husband, Saleh Bole, and other family members,” the commissioner said.

    Lawan explained that in spite of the burial, police investigators managed to photograph the victim’s remains and gather critical evidence.

    He added that two suspects were arrested immediately, while one was still at large, assuring that the police had launched a manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspect.

    The commissioner described the attack as barbaric and unjustified, warning that accusations of witchcraft should not be used as an excuse for violence or extrajudicial killings.

    “The police are fully committed to bringing all those responsible for this heinous crime to justice. The public must understand that the law does not permit people to take matters into their own hands,” he said

    According to him, the suspects are facing charges of criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, and other related offenses, noting that they would be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.

    Lawan therefore, urged community members to report suspicions of witchcraft or other grievances to the police rather than resorting to jungle justice.

  • Terrorists reportedly bomb Nigerian army base in Borno

    Terrorists reportedly bomb Nigerian army base in Borno

    Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have reportedly bombed a Nigerian military base in Wajiroko, located in the Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
    The attack occurred on Christmas Eve December 24 2024, when multiple armed drones, carrying locally fabricated grenades, targeted the Forward Operating Base.
    The strike injured no fewer than six soldiers, who were quickly given first aid at the scene and are awaiting further medical treatment.
    The assault began with gunfire from the terrorists, who launched a brief attack that was repelled by the soldiers.
    However, shortly afterward, drones carrying explosives struck the base again.
    According to military sources, up to four different armed drones were observed during the attack.
    A report also revealed that a military gun truck was damaged during the strike.
    Boko Haram has been a persistent threat in Northeastern Nigeria for nearly two decades, causing loss of life and displacing millions.
    The Nigerian military has repeatedly claimed success in combating the insurgents, though the group remains a formidable force, continuing to carry out attacks across the region.
  • Many terrorists reportedly wasted after NAF airstrikes in Borno

    Many terrorists reportedly wasted after NAF airstrikes in Borno

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the air component of Operation Hadin Kai, has said many Boko Haram terrorists were wasted at two locations in Bula Marwa in Borno.

    This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, issued on Monday in Abuja.

    Akinboyewa said the NAF, having identified Bula Marwa as a high-level meeting site for Boko Haram’s notorious figures, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions further confirmed heightened terrorist activity.

    He said the IRS revealed an influx of motorcycles and gatherings of combatants across the site.

    He said NAF fighter jets were dispatched to the location for an air interdiction mission.

    “On arrival, ISR footage captured suspected terrorists assembling at a rendezvous point on 12 motorcycles.

    “The motorcycles were then traced to a primary meeting location where additional terrorists had been waiting.

    “Accordingly, the first airstrike was executed, effectively engaging the target area.

    “Moments later, ISR aircraft loitering in the vicinity observed several terrorists returning to assess the damage and evacuate their wounded combatants.

    “In response, NAF air assets conducted follow-up strikes, neutralising additional terrorists,” he said.

    Akinboyewa said additional ISR was conducted in the area the same day, identifying another group of terrorists gathering under a large tree at a second meeting site.

  • Procurement Act Violation: FG urged to probe multi-million Naira Borno streetlight project

    Procurement Act Violation: FG urged to probe multi-million Naira Borno streetlight project

    The Federal Government and its anti-graft agencies have been urged to probe irregularities and corrupt practices in implementing 1,052 solar streetlight projects worth over N762 million in some communities in Borno state.

    An investigative report published by the International Center For Investigative Reporting (ICIR) had indicted contractors that were awarded streetlight projects in the local communities of Bayo, Kwaya Kusar, and Shani in Borno State of failing to install over 400 streetlights and the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development for supervisory failures.

    Participants called for an immediate probe during an anti-corruption radio program, PUBLIC CONSCIENCE, produced by the Progressive Impact Organization for Community Development, PRIMORG, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Speaking during the radio programme, ICIR’s Investigative reporter, Muhammad Ali, tasked leading anti-corruption agencies, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, to look into the discrepancies in the Borno Streetlight project execution and violation of Public Procurement Act leading to missing streetlights.

    Ali, while lamenting that politicians in connivance with contractors were taking advantage of gaps in public procurement to divert projects meant for communities for their personal use, urged that “the government must act fast to ensure the streetlight project is completed.”

    Explaining how the contractors failed to implement the streetlight project properly, He said: “The streetlight project was worth N762, 301, 082.14 million and was awarded to contractors in 2021.

    “Dunkulu Global Venture was awarded 277 streetlights but installed 230, meaning the company failed to account for the 47 uninstalled solar streetlights.

    “The project file of Dunkulu Global Venture at the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development lacked evidence of how the project was executed and did not meet the required documentation standards for payment processing.

    “As for Facile Concept Service, they claimed to have fulfilled his part by bringing all 221 solar streetlights to Bayo and that they were installed within Briyel and other wards. However, it remains unclear how these streetlights were distributed and installed because, according to residents, some of them never worked.

    “RKK Inspire Service Limited did not execute a streetlight project in Shani from our findings. Two hundred seventy-seven solar streetlights were installed on paper. Interestingly, records of the Open Treasury Portal show that RKK Inspire Service Limited was paid over N202 million in February 2022. When we visited the communities marked for the project on July 1, 2024, there was nothing on the ground to show that the contractor even mobilized to the site,” Ali revealed.

    On his part, BudgIT’s State Officer for Tracka, Garba Abdullahi, described the reported corruption in the implementation of streetlight projects in Borno communities as unfortunate while noting that the development reflects the existing flawed public procurement system in the country.

    Abdullahi called on the EFCC and ICPC to immediately beam their searchlight on the report while insisting that government agencies must ensure strict adherence to the Public Procurement Act by contractors.

    He lauded PRIMORG and TheICIR for amplifying the corruption report, urging citizens to support anti-corruption agencies with information track and recover public projects mishandled by contractors.

    Abdullahi said: “It’s so unfortunate that in Nigeria today, we are still not getting it right in this act of public funded projects, and I think the anti-corruption agencies must be alerted and should act.

    “The ICPC and EFCC should put more effort into tackling these issues. The ICPC is doing a great job with that, but they cannot do it alone. They need citizens to help them report such cases.

    “Whenever we discover issues like these, as BudgIT, we write to the ministry, to ICPC mostly and the EFCC the ministry and inform the citizens. We tell the citizens so that they can confront their representatives with their votes. I encourage the ICIR to write to these agencies and the public. If they do, there will be a solution to that.

    “People need to be involved. The Procurement Act is supposed to be followed according to how it is stated. But, sadly, somebody with a detailed certificate seeking contracts will submit a bill of quantity proposal for the project. Still, MDAs will dump it because they don’t know you or are not related to you,” Ali lamented.

    He expressed disapproval of those calling for the scrapping of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing it as the handiwork of corrupt elements in the society.

    The Supreme Court has scheduled October 22 to hear a suit filed by 16 state governments challenging the legality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

    Public Conscience is a syndicated weekly anti-corruption radio program PRIMORG uses to draw government and citizens’ attention to corruption and integrity issues in Nigeria.
    The program has the support of the MacArthur Foundation.