Insecurity: Zulum urges Borno residents to fast on Monday
Amidst the resurgence of insecurity in Borno State, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has urged all residents of Borno to fast on Monday to seek Allah’s intervention to contain the security challenges.
Governor Zulum, who made the announcement on Saturday during a statewide broadcast, said the state government is working on a comprehensive strategy in collaboration with the federal government to strengthen security architecture, enhance intelligence sharing, and equip security agents with necessary tools to confront the security threats.
“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. This Monday, I am inviting you to join me in a voluntary day of fasting and prayer for peace to reign in Borno State, the Northeast and indeed the entire country. Let us come together to seek divine guidance, healing, and peace for our state.
“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.
“I encourage each of you to participate fully in this day of fasting. Let us pray for the safety of our families, the progress of our communities, and the lasting peace in our state and the country at large,” he said.
He pledged to strengthen the volunteer forces, improve intelligence gathering at the community level and early warning systems as part of commitment to address the menace.
“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,” Zulum stated.
The governor restated that the President has given an assurance to tackle the surge in the security challenges head-on.
“Indeed the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all the Service Chiefs have given us assurances that they will do everything possible within their reach to bring to an end the current insecurity that we are facing in the state.
“we shall also strengthen our volunteer forces, comprising the CJTF, hunters, and vigilantes, and bolster our community intelligence gathering and early warning systems as part of our commitment to supporting the security agencies. Let me warn against colluding with these armed groups, either individually or as a community, as they are our collective enemy.”
On the water scarcity in Maiduguri, the governor expressed commitment to address the problem which was caused by the 10th September 2024 catastrophic flood disaster.
“Fellow citizens, I am aware of the ongoing water scarcity affecting parts of Maiduguri, Jere, and surrounding areas. This situation is a direct consequence of the destruction of major pipelines during the catastrophic floods of last year.
“Let me reassure you that my administration has been working tirelessly to restore the affected infrastructure. I appeal for your patience and understanding as we finalise efforts to fully re-establish the water supply system.”
He called for more support from all citizens, saying “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.
“I call upon all stakeholders, our traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, and indeed every citizen to join hands with us. Together, we can secure our communities, restore normalcy, and ensure that Borno thrives once again.”
He also addressed the disturbing rise in criminal activities within the metropolis, announcing the reconstitution of the Anti-Social Vices Committee tasked with tackling all forms of violent crimes.
“We will not allow criminal elements to destabilise the progress we are making, insha Allah,” he assured.
Zulum commiserated with members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who lost their lives in the course of discharging their duties and prayed for their families to bear the irreparable loss.
