From Olukayode Idowu, Maiduguri
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has told residents of destroyed Dikwa to be patient and resilient as the government is doing something to protect them from insurgency attacks.
Dikwa was temporarily captured by Boko Haram in a siege during the week.
The insurgents destroyed many building in the town and were also alleged to have abducted some residents before they were pushed back by the military.
The governor who was in the town to assess the extent of damage on Friday later joined the residents for the day’s congregational prayers.
After which he delivered President Muhammadu Buhari’s assurances to the people.
He said: “I had a meeting with Mr. President on Tuesday, he has given me assurance that steps are being deployed to ensure your safety.
“I urge you to be patient and resilient, we are aware of the very difficult conditions you find yourselves and we are in this together, we are not resting. We are doing whatever we can and insha’Allah, we will achieve our aim.”
During his visit to Dikwa, Zulum said the destructions by the insurgents at the palace of the Shehu of Dikwa, Nigerian Army’s 81 DIV TF BN NASC 9 Headquarters, 22 Armored Brigade headquarters, UN Humanitarian Hub, Primary Healthcare Centre and IDP camps.
The Governor ordered the Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement to rehabilitate all destroyed properties, including those belonging to the military.
He consoled families affected by the attack, and charged all residents to cooperate with the security operatives by reporting suspicious movements at all times.
