Renewed Boko Haram Attacks Prompt Plea for Military Reinforcement in Adamawa State
The Tol Huba, Alheri Nyako, the paramount traditional leader of the Hong people in Adamawa State, has made a heartfelt appeal to the Federal Government to deploy additional troops to the Hong Local Government Area. This urgent request comes on the heels of a series of brutal attacks by Boko Haram terrorists in communities within his jurisdiction, which is situated near the notorious Sambisa Forest in Borno State.
The recent attacks have left a trail of devastation, with one of the most tragic incidents occurring in Kwapre on April 26, where 10 local hunters, who were serving as vigilantes to protect the community, lost their lives. Markus Musa, a relative of one of the slain hunters, shared the harrowing story of how his brother and fellow vigilantes were overpowered by the terrorists. “We were forced to flee our hometown, Kopre, due to the Boko Haram threat. My brother joined the vigilantes to defend our area, but they were no match for the terrorists. Now that it’s farming season, we want to return home, but we don’t feel safe,” Musa lamented.
The Tol Huba attributed the persistent Boko Haram incursions into his area to the absence of an Air Force operational base in Adamawa State, which has left his community vulnerable to attacks. He emphasized the need for enhanced security measures, including the deployment of additional troops and aerial support from the Air Force. The king also urged the state government to arm local hunters with sophisticated weapons, enabling them to effectively confront the insurgents. “If vigilantes are equipped with better weapons, they can fight against Boko Haram. We also require increased security presence around communities near Sambisa Forest,” the king stressed.
As the security challenges facing the Adamawa-Borno border communities continue to escalate, the Tol Huba’s plea for military reinforcement and support has become increasingly urgent. The plight of the local residents, who are caught in the midst of the conflict, underscores the need for a comprehensive and sustained response to the Boko Haram insurgency. With the farming season underway, the return of displaced residents to their homes hinges on the provision of a secure environment, making the Tol Huba’s appeal a matter of paramount importance.
