Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has visited Uba town in Askira/Uba Local Government Area to sympathise with parents of schoolchildren abducted in Mussa community, assuring residents that efforts are being intensified to secure their safe release.
Governor Zulum, who met with parents of the abducted children at the palace of the Emir of Uba, expressed sympathy to the Emir, the affected families, and the entire people of the emirate over the incident.
The governor assured the community that the Federal Government, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the Borno State Government were working collectively to ensure the safe return of the children.
Governor Zulum also commended security agencies for taking proactive measures to contain the situation and disclosed that senior military officers and other security heads had been deployed to strengthen security in the area.
He pledged to reinforce security in Askira, Uba, and adjoining communities to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
The governor appealed to the abductors to release the children, describing them as innocent minors deserving parental care and protection. Governor Zulum further called on residents of the Uba Emirate and the people of Borno State to intensify prayers, especially during the first ten days of the holy month of Dhul Hijjah.
Speaking during the visit, the Emir of Uba, Alhaji Ali Ibn Isma’ila Mamza the Second, disclosed that forty-eight persons were abducted during the attack on Mussa community, including thirty-seven primary school pupils, six secondary school students, and five other residents.
The Emir commended Governor Zulum for his commitment to tackling insecurity and supporting communities across the state. A representative of the Mussa community, Dr. Chinapi Amanja, also appreciated the governor’s visit and acknowledged the deployment of additional security personnel to the area.
Governor Zulum also visited Chibok town to commiserate with communities affected by recent attacks in parts of Chibok Local Government Area.
Addressing district heads, village heads, and other stakeholders, the governor described the attacks as unfortunate and assured residents that the government was making concerted efforts to restore normalcy through the deployment of additional troops.
He urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding while praying for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives. Responding on behalf of the affected communities, the District Head of Garu, Engineer Zannah Madu, appreciated the governor for the visit and continued government intervention in addressing security challenges in the area.
RN
