The recent attack on Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State has been linked to insurgents displaced from their strongholds in Sambisa Forest, Governor Babagana Zulum has said.
The governor made the remark during a visit to the affected community to sympathise with families who lost their loved ones in the attack.
Scores of residents and soldiers were reportedly killed when terrorists stormed Ngoshe, destroying both public and private property. The exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed as authorities continue to assess the damage.
Speaking during a condolence visit to displaced residents in Pulka on Friday, Zulum described the incident as tragic and assured the community that the government and security forces would intensify efforts to restore peace.
He explained that the attack occurred as insurgents fled intensified military pressure in Sambisa Forest, leading them to launch coordinated assaults on nearby communities.
Zulum also called on the Nigerian Army and the Federal Government to intensify operations in the Mandara Hills, which he described as a major security threat.
According to him, insurgents descended from the hills before launching the attack on Ngoshe, stressing that clearing the area would help prevent similar incidents.
The governor noted that several people were abducted during the assault but expressed confidence that the military would do everything possible to secure their rescue.
As part of immediate humanitarian intervention, the Borno State Government has begun distributing relief materials to affected residents while cooking points are being established to provide meals for displaced persons.
Zulum urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the state government would continue to work with federal authorities to restore lasting peace and stability.
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