Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum has said last weekend’s attack on Kareto will not deter the government from carrying out its constitutional duty of providing the dividends of democracy to the people of the state in collaboration with federal agencies.
Zulum, while condemning in strong terms the atrocious attack and reaffirmed the loyalty, commitment and support of the people and Government of Borno State to the military who were targeted by the Boko Haram insurgents in the attack, commiserated with the armed forces and the families of the victims.
He said: “On behalf of the government and good people of Borno, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the armed forces and families of the deceased over the demise of our fellow compatriots. May Allah rest their souls and grant fortitude to the affected families.”
Zulum noted that the Kareto attack is a painful reminder of the callousness of the Boko Haram insurgents who are bent on reversing the gains made in mass resettlement of internally displaced persons back to their ancestral homes in northern Borno., adding that Kareto, a vibrant town, is one of over 20 settlements that are being targeted for resettlement of IDPs from Maiduguri and other locations.
The governor thanked the armed forces and security agencies for standing in harm’s way in order to secure our territory and way of life, stating that: “We are eternally grateful to our gallant military and security forces for all they have been doing to safeguard lives and property in our state, adding that “Kareto attack was a painful reminder of the heinous desperation of the adversary to torpedo our modest achievement, and cause panic in our communities. I call on our good people to stand firm, not to waver, and to support the armed forces as they work daily to confront our collective threats.”
Zulum reiterated the resolve of the Borno State Government to continue to work closely with the armed forces to secure our country and provide development, stating that: “Be rest assured that the Borno State Government, under my watch, will continue to work closely with the armed forces to execute our development and peace-building programmes.”
