*Gwoza, Borno State, Nigeria – September 25, 2023:*
Suspected members of the notorious Boko Haram terrorist group launched a deadly ambush on motorists, passengers, and security forces along the Gwoza-Limankara-Uvaha road over the weekend, resulting in tragic loss of life and heightened concerns about security in the region.
According to a reliable source who spoke with Vanguard on Sunday, the attack, which occurred on Saturday around 5 pm, targeted a convoy that included soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). Tragically, the assailants’ onslaught left one soldier and three passengers dead, with several motorists and passengers either abducted or missing.
The terrorists also set ablaze five commercial vehicles, including a security patrol vehicle, further exacerbating the chaos and destruction on the busy road. Communication lapses delayed the dissemination of information about the incident until Sunday afternoon.
This recent act of violence follows a string of attacks in Gwoza local government area, prompting renewed concerns about the safety of residents and the region’s agricultural activities. Just last week, Hon Ahmed Jaha, a member of the House of Representatives representing Gwoza/Chibok/Damboa, raised the alarm over the killing of 10 farmers in Gwoza within a 10-day period. The First Class Emir of Gwoza, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, also expressed his anguish over the brutal attacks on farmers during harvesting in the area.
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Southern Borno, acknowledged the road ambush and other attacks by Boko Haram terrorists in the region. While he could not confirm the exact number of casualties, he expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Gwoza. He called for increased collaboration between the military and local youths to combat the ongoing threats.
Senator Ndume emphasized the need for the deployment of additional troops in Gwoza to quell the intermittent attacks that have instilled fear among residents and disrupted economic activities. He urged Gwoza’s youth to join the fight against Boko Haram, following the example of other communities in the region that have actively supported security agencies in their efforts to combat terrorism.
The situation remains tense in Gwoza, and local authorities, as well as security forces, are under pressure to address the escalating violence and protect the lives and livelihoods of the people in the region.
