Borno Is Under Boko Haram – SSG

Secretary to Borno State Government (SSG) Ambassador Baba Ahmed Jidda has declared that a considerable part of the state is under control of Boko Haram.

According to P.M. News, the official made this known while briefing journalists on September 7 in Abuja. He lamented that insurgents’ activities had paralyzed normal activities in Borno.
Jidda urged politicians to play down discussions about the 2015 elections as there is currently a more important issue in the country – flourishing terrorism.

“At this very moment, most parts of Borno State are being occupied by Boko Haram insurgents. Government presence and administration is minimal or non-existent across many parts of the state, with economic, commercial and social services totally subdued. Schools and clinics remain closed.
“Most settlements in the affected areas in the state have either been deserted or access to them practically impossible, thus majority of the political stakeholders cannot, in real fact reach their constituencies.

Thus, he added that it was simply impossible to provide environment for politics and polling in the state.
“In the view of many, the thought about politics and pursuit of political interest in this environment appears absurd, callous and morally repulsive.”Jidda also criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to conduct a bye-election for Jere LG House of Assembly Constituency on 3 October once again stressing that the environment is not conductive for it.

Insurgents take over Michika
Boko Haram militants meanwhile continue seizing new territories forcing thousands of people, so as soldiers, run away from home and take refuge in the neigbouring towns, states and even countries.