Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum responded to the report that Information Minister Mohammed Idris allegedly dismissed his recent alert for the state’s updated Boko Haram attack, saying the minister was “naive” about reality.
Zulum earlier attracted attention at a security conference in Maiduguri, saying: “In Borno State, Boko Haram activities have recovered, and the maritime state government, military and paramilitary all need to work together to avoid imminent situations.”
His comments caught the attention after a publication claimed that the minister dismissed Zurum’s warning. However, a statement issued by Minister’s media aide Rabiu Ibrahim denied Idris’ comments.
“The minister never said, ‘Ignore Zurum, Boko Haram did not take over Borno.’ Such a title is not only sensational, but also intentionally made, intentionally misunderstood acts to misunderstand the public,” Statement reading.
Zulum said to the reporter who responded: “I don’t want to join the Minister of Information. I believe he is naive about what is going on in the country; he has no idea what is going on in the country.”
He added that his government’s concern was sincerely raised to urgently focus on the growing insecurity in the region. “We had a pretty good discussion at the Security Council meeting. We just issued an alarm…I think it was a good suggestion. Never said it again.” He pointed out.
Zulum revealed that he had met with Nigeria’s top military leader in Abuja to discuss the situation. “We met the service leaders, especially CDs, Army Chiefs of Staff, Navy staff, and airlines. We got assurance from them that they will do everything possible to control the situation,” he said. He said.
The governor reiterates his administration’s decision: “Under my watch, Boko Haram will not be able to do what they have done before. We will do everything possible to reduce them.”
