Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has issued a strong appeal to the Federal Government, urging immediate and decisive military intervention to prevent the strategic town of Marte from falling once again into the hands of Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents.
The governor made the call after personally visiting Marte, where he spent the night coordinating security operations alongside the Nigerian Army and local volunteer forces.
He described the security situation in the area as critical and warned of dire consequences if the town is lost.
Speaking to journalists during the visit, Zulum revealed that Marte was attacked days earlier, causing mass displacement.
“Marte was resettled about four years ago, but unfortunately, over the last three days, it was ransacked and displaced again. About 20,000 people fled to Dikwa. This is alarming, as it raises the risk of insurgents recruiting from among the displaced, particularly the youth,” he said
Despite the challenges, Zulum commended the Nigerian Army and civilian volunteers for their swift response, which enabled residents to begin returning. However, he emphasized that holding Marte requires sustained federal support and intensified military presence.
“Previously, Marte Local Government had over 300 towns and villages. Today, only one remains. If we fail to protect this last standing town, the entire local government could be lost to insurgents. That would be disastrous,” he warned.
Zulum underscored the strategic importance of Marte and called on the Federal Government and military leadership to prioritize its defense, describing it as a test of national resolve in the fight against terrorism.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies, pledging continuous collaboration to restore lasting peace across Borno State.
“On my part as Governor of Borno State, I will do everything within my power to support our gallant military in their efforts toward lasting peace in our beloved state,” Zulum stated.