Boko Haram attacks: Borno community demands relocation of Army barracks

The community hosting Giwa Barrack in Bale Galtimari, Maiduguri, called for the relocation of the facility over the fear of insurgents’ attacks.

The community made the appeal at a news conference organised by the Bale Galtimari Consultative Forum in Maiduguri, Borno State capital.

Zanna Boguma, the forum’s chairman, said the relocation was necessary given the danger associated with the presence of the barracks in the midst of civil communities of Galtimari, Fori and 122, with over one million population combined.

“We acknowledge the importance of a strong military presence in the state, but installations of such strategic significance should not be located within civilian communities,” the chairman said.

Mr Boguma said the barracks, which was meant to be a detention centre for insurgents, had experienced attacks by Boko Haram in 2014, three times in 2015 and in 2019 in the insurgents’ efforts to free detainees.

He said the recent explosion within the barracks at its armoury, which created serious tension in the entire community, was a serious concern for all.

The chairman also said they were in know that the House of Representatives had adopted a motion moved by Rep. Satomi Ahmad, the member representing Jere Federal Constituency in Borno, who called for the barracks’ relocation.

“This appeal is not political. It is a call for action to protect innocent lives and to allow the military to operate in a more secure and suitable environment.

“We will continue to advocate peacefully and responsibly until necessary action is taken,” Mr Boguma said.

He commended the efforts of the armed forces in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the region and Governor Babagana Zulum’s unwavering commitment to peace and security in the state.