This is a statewide broadcast by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Friday, 2nd August 2024.
Fellow citizens of Borno State,
Today, I address you with a heavy heart as we mourn the tragic loss of innocent lives from the recent bomb attack in Kawuri town in Konduga Local Government Area and Gwoza Local Government Area of our state, among other locations.
I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those affected by this tragedy and to all the people of Borno State. This afternoon, I visited the State Specialist Hospital to express my sympathy to those injured and receiving medical treatment.
During this difficult time, we stand united in grief and condemnation of this senseless violence that has struck our beloved state once more.
Based on intelligence reports and consultations with our security heads, I have imposed a 24-hour curfew, effective from noon on Thursday, to prevent further loss of life and property that could arise from potential infiltration by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents.
Unfortunately, some individuals, under the guise of participating in a nationwide protest, engaged in criminal activities, including the destruction of public property. Hospitals were vandalized, and essential equipment and facilities were looted. There were also several attempts to attack the Maiduguri Emergency Gas Power Plant, which were thwarted by our courageous security forces.
To those exploiting the current situation for criminal purposes, I urge you to reconsider your actions. Theft and vandalism only harm our community. We must express our grievances through peaceful and lawful means while respecting others’ rights and property.
Violence has no place in our society. I call upon all citizens to reject any calls to arms or acts of aggression. Let us embrace dialogue, understanding, and tolerance as we work together to build a better future for Borno State.
Protecting lives and property is the primary responsibility of any government. As we lift the curfew on Saturday, 3rd August 2024, any person found engaging in looting or violent activities will face appropriate consequences.
It is concerning that over 95% of those who participated in Thursday’s protest were children under 14 years old, many of whom do not understand the reasons for the protest. This situation highlights the need for better oversight of Almajiri children and their guardians.
I extend my sympathy to all innocent people affected by Thursday’s violence, vandalism, and property looting. The government of Borno State remains committed to ensuring peace and prosperity throughout the state.
Our security forces have worked tirelessly to restore normalcy in the metropolis and its surroundings. Consequently, I am directing the lifting of the curfew, and citizens are advised to resume their lawful activities from 6:00 a.m. tomorrow, Saturday, August 3rd, 2024.
My administration supports peaceful protests and encourages any group wishing to express their grievances to approach the relevant authorities for appropriate arrangements.
We are fully committed to addressing the challenges facing our state. We have undertaken various measures to alleviate hardships and promote development, including infrastructure improvements, education, healthcare, and economic support for farmers.
Our ongoing projects aim to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and enhance the overall well-being of our people. We are also investing in afforestation to combat environmental degradation.
My administration will continue to collaborate with the Federal Government to provide support to the people of Borno State.
As we face these trying times, let us remember the resilience and strength that define us as the people of Borno State. Together, we can overcome adversity and build a future of peace, prosperity, and security.
May God bless Borno State and grant us peace.
MNT/BBW BBW RGK/BBW/BBW
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