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From Billy Graham Abel, Yola
Following renewed attacks on communities in Madagali and Hong local government areas of Adamawa State, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has warned terrorists, declaring that the state would not bow to intimidation or violence.
Describing the assaults as cowardly acts of terrorism, the Governor vowed that perpetrators would face the full weight of the law.
“We will not let terrorists undermine our efforts to restore peace and stability in Adamawa State,” Governor Fintiri said. “I warn the perpetrators to desist from these senseless attacks or face the full weight of our collective resolve.”
The Governor reassured residents of the government’s unwavering commitment to security, emphasising that the state had previously overcome similar threats.
“We have done this before and we are determined to do it again. We will continue working closely with security agencies to protect our citizens and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
He urged residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities. “Go about your businesses. We have your back. We will protect you and your livelihoods.”
He also commended the armed forces and other security agencies for their bravery and dedication, pledging continued logistical and institutional support from the state government.
The Governor’s statement followed a devastating early morning attack reportedly carried out by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on Sheweri in Madagali LGA and Garaha in Hong LGA.
Witnesses described the scenes of chaos as heavily armed insurgents stormed the communities, opening fire and setting buildings ablaze. In Sheweri, large sections of the town were reportedly set ablaze, forcing residents to flee into surrounding bushes as heavy shooting intensified.
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Residents reported that they woke up to the sounds of heavy gunshots, scenes of heavy clouds of smoke and the destruction of their valuables.
Reacting to the incidents, Iliya Yame Kwache, a native of Michika in Adamawa State, in a statement, condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric.
The statement described the violence as deeply troubling and blamed the persistent failure of leadership under the All Progressives Congress, APC-led administration to adequately secure lives and property.
Kwache, however, commended the resilience and sacrifices of the armed forces and paramilitary organisations operating in the region.
He also called on the National Assembly to hold the Executive accountable and ensure immediate, decisive action to halt the bloodshed.
“The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of any government. Swift and decisive measures must be taken to restore peace,” the statement read.
He offered prayers for the bereaved families and wished speedy recovery for the injured, expressing solidarity with the people of Madagali and Hong LGAs during what he described as a painful and distressing period.
Adamawa State, which shares borders with the conflict-prone state of Borno in Northeastern Nigeria, has experienced insurgent attacks over the years. Security agencies are yet to release an official casualty figure as of press time.
Residents now look to coordinated state and federal action as authorities intensify efforts to prevent further incursions and restore calm to the affected communities.
