Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has raised alarm over the presence of Boko Haram informants and collaborators within Nigeria’s political class, armed forces, and local communities.
Speaking on News Central’s Breakfast Central programme on Wednesday, Zulum revealed that intelligence reports have identified insiders aiding the insurgents, and warned that the state would intensify efforts to uncover and deal with saboteurs.
“We have informants and collaborators within the Nigerian armed forces, politicians, and communities. We will strengthen our intelligence and deal with them ruthlessly,” Zulum declared.
He stressed the need to move away from what he termed “contractocracy” and stop politicising security issues, asserting that with a focused strategy, the insurgency could be ended in just six months.
On the controversial issue of surrendered Boko Haram fighters, the governor said the reintegration programme has been largely successful, though not without flaws.
“I can’t say 100% of them are doing well, but over 99% are not involved in terrorism anymore,” he stated, emphasizing that a mix of military and non-military strategies was essential for lasting peace.
“Insurgency cannot be defeated through military force alone. We must also tackle the social, political, and economic roots of the crisis. These non-kinetic efforts are showing results, thanks to the support of the Nigerian military,” Zulum said.
He acknowledged that some of the over 500,000 repentant fighters might relapse, but maintained that the vast majority have embraced peace.
The governor criticised the inadequate equipping of the military, saying insurgents at times possess more advanced technology. “Our military lacks essential equipment to effectively confront the insurgency,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Zulum praised the armed forces for their role in stabilising the region and supporting the state’s peace-building initiatives.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to rely on ground-level intelligence and professional military advice in addressing the nation’s security crisis.
“We must stop politicising insecurity. The President should listen to people who know what they’re doing. He must act on advice from those who can distinguish right from wrong,” Zulum concluded.
