Troops foil IED threat on Dikwa–Gajibo road, safely detonate explosive

By Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have discovered and safely detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) planted along the Dikwa–Gajibo road in Borno State, preventing what could have been a deadly attack on security personnel and commuters.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the device was discovered at about 10:10 a.m. on July 27 by troops of the 81 Division Task Force Battalion while conducting a routine picketing patrol along the Dikwa–Gajibo axis.

The sources said the patrol team immediately secured the area and alerted the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, which responded promptly and carried out a controlled detonation of the IED at the scene.

No casualties or damage were recorded during the operation.

Military sources described the successful detection and neutralisation of the explosive as part of ongoing efforts to counter the use of improvised explosive devices by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists targeting troops and civilian traffic in the North-East.

The operation underscores the continued vigilance of security forces in maintaining the safety of key supply routes and denying insurgents the opportunity to disrupt military and civilian movement across the theatre of operations.

Security sources added that the general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, with troops maintaining high morale and operational readiness.

Troops foil IED threat on Dikwa–Gajibo road, safely detonate explosive

Zulum moves to resettle Konduga IDPs in four months

By: Bodunrin Kayode

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has announced the planned closure of Konduga internally displaced persons (IDP) camp within the next four months.

This follows the successful closure of Bama IDP camp, the largest displacement facility outside the state capital and the planned shutdown of Gwoza camp.

Speaking to newsmen during a recent visit to the camp, Zulum, however, stressed that the relocation is entirely voluntary and no one will be forced to resettle where they are not willing to go.

The Governor has consistently maintained that returning to ancestral homes or other areas of choice must be based on the displaced persons’ expressed willingness.

He said, “We are not carrying out the resettlement process immediately; we are here to discuss with the IDPs so that in the next four months they will be resettled in a dignified manner. I believe you heard from the IDPs that they are willing to return home. Return shall be voluntary, not by force”.

During his visit to Konduga, Governor Zulum inspected resettlement houses currently under construction in Amarwa and later proceeded to Maiwa in Mafa LGA. The Amarwa resettlement city, for which the governor had earlier laid the foundation, is being built to shelter displaced persons living in camps.

In Maiwa, the state government is constructing massive housing units as part of the ongoing resettlement programme. The resettlement houses are equipped with public facilities like a primary healthcare centre, a water facility, and other basic amenities.

Zulum was accompanied by the member of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba; the Member of the House of Assembly for Konduga, Hon. Bukar Modu; the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mai Mele; and other senior government officials.

Zulum moves to resettle Konduga IDPs in four months

Governor Buni reflects on the passing away of the Emir of Ngazargamu and others in Yobe

By: Yahaya Wakili

Governor Mai Mala Buni, CON, of Yobe State, has mourned the passage of sons and daughters of the state, describing the deaths as a giant loss to their families, communities, and, indeed, the state in general.

The governor disclosed the information in response to the sad deaths recorded across the state within short periods in recent times.

Governor Mai Mala Buni called for prayers for the repose of their souls and support to their families, adding that “it is indeed a trying moment for us, but we firmly believe that it is the will of Almighty Allah.”

He consoled the families of the deceased and the people of the state, noting that, “As faithful, we all know death is a necessary end; it will always come at the prescribed time as ordained by Allah (SWT).”

According to Governor Buni, we have lost one too many in recent times, from the late Emir of Ngazargamu to the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Bukar Aji; former Permanent Secretary Alhaji Ligali Ma’aji; Alhaji Yakubu Dokshe; Hajiya Mairiga Umar; Alhaji Kafchi Shettima; and some others.

“The deceased persons have, in their individual capacities, contributed greatly to the people and the state at large,” Gov. Buni added.

“As Muslims, we accept the will of God and pray for the repose of their souls. May Almighty Allah grant them Aljannah Firdausi and their families the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

Governor Buni prayed, May Almighty Allah forgive their shortcomings and bless their souls with Aljannah Fiddausi. Ameen.

Governor Buni reflects on the passing away of the Emir of Ngazargamu and others in Yobe