By Olukayode Michael, Maiduguri
Borno
Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara has said the intensity of Boko Haram has
gingered His people to fight back rather than chicken out.
He said the recent upsurge of Boko Haram attacks on Gajiram, Gajigana, Dalori
and Gubio will never deter the people of the state but rather bring out the
best of resistance in them.
He said his government is more committed than ever before to take on the
insurgents and ensure victory and return to peace and development.
The governor, made this pronouncement on Wednesday during the official launch
of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Agro Rangers Squad.
The rangers with 75 squad members to be assisted the military, paramilitary and
120 strong members of the Civilian Joint Task Force are given the task of
providing protection to farmlands and farmers in the state.
Umara recalled that during his inaugural address, he pledged his commitment
towards upholding section 14 ( 1 ) b of the constitution as amended that
categorically states that: “The security and welfare of the people shall
be the primary purpose of Government,” noting that he is ready and ever
committed to ensuring the fulfilment of that pledge.
He said: “The clarion call since my assumption of duty as the Chief
Executive of the state has been that of patience, endurance and a quick return
to farming while the government does the needful.
“We have since commenced the opening up of farmlands along major highways
and putting necessary safeguards to protect the farmlands as well as the
farmers. In addition to the support package in terms of farm inputs and
financial incentives, government is working towards facilitating grants to
farmers from various sources to help boost up agricultural sector.
“Today, we are commissioning 75 ” Agro – rangers ” for immediate
deployment to the field of operation. They just graduated after undergoing an
intensive training programme in College of Peace, Conflict Resolution and
Disaster Management in Katsina.
“They were exposed to the fundamental skills and knowledge to carry out their
responsibilities effectively under the direct supervision of the Nigerian Civil
and Security Defence Corps.”
He assured that sooner than later , government will have another batch of 150,
which will work hand in hand with all other security outfits such as the
Civilian JTF , Hunters, and Vigilantes to achieve harmonious working
relationship
He said: “We want to build a formidable team with the technical support of
the military, the police, civil defence , state security services and other
security operations.”
The Assistant Commandant General of NSCDC, Barrister Augustine Obiekwe, who
represented the Commandant General of the corps, said Borno is the first
beneficial of the scheme as other agro rangers would be deployed all over the
country to protect the agricultural resources of Nigeria.
He said the agro rangers are to ensure security across the country with minimum
use of force.
He warned the rangers of violating the human rights of Nigerians in the course
of undertaking their task.