Zulum Raises Alarm: Boko Haram on Brink of Capturing Last Borno Stronghold!”

Governor Zulum Sounds Alarm Over Looming Fall of Marte to Insurgents

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has raised a stark warning over the escalating security crisis in Marte Local Government Area, revealing that only one town remains outside the control of Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents.

Speaking on Sunday during a visit to the area, Zulum appealed to the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army to take urgent, coordinated action to avert the total takeover of the local government by insurgents.

“Marte used to have over 300 towns and villages. Today, we are left with only one. If we lose this last standing town, the entire LGA could fall,” the governor cautioned.

Mass Exodus and Rising Concerns

Zulum revealed that over 20,000 residents have fled from Marte in recent days, seeking shelter in Dikwa, and warned that the displacement could exacerbate insecurity, particularly among unemployed youth in camps who may become vulnerable to terrorist recruitment.

“Marte was resettled four years ago, but in just the past three days, it has been attacked and displaced again,” he lamented. “Leaving such a large population in camps without intervention is extremely dangerous. We must act swiftly.”

Despite the dire situation, the governor reported that his visit—alongside the Nigerian Army and local security volunteers—has encouraged some displaced persons to return.

“Alhamdulillah, we went back to Marte and spent the night. Thanks to the support of the Nigerian Army and civilian volunteers, the community has been resettled again,” Zulum stated.

He stressed the importance of maintaining a strong and continuous military presence to defend the remaining territory and stop insurgents from gaining further ground.

“I’m calling on the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army—this is the time to act. We must secure what’s left or risk facing severe consequences,” he warned.

Zulum reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to assisting the military and security agencies in restoring peace to Borno State.

“As governor, I remain committed to supporting our brave troops and ensuring that peace returns to our communities,” he affirmed.

Marte, due to its location in the Lake Chad region, has long been a hotspot of insurgent activity in the northeast.