Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has raised alarm over the growing presence of Boko Haram insurgents within Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in the State. Speaking during a resettlement event on Sunday, Governor Zulum warned that the militants are using the camps as safe havens after carrying out attacks.
“We can’t tolerate this anymore,” Governor Zulum stated. “Boko Haram insurgents have infiltrated IDP camps, committing atrocities and perpetuating insecurity.” He urged the Nigerian military and security agencies to take swift action to protect the vulnerable IDPs.
In addition to the security threat, Governor Zulum also expressed concern about the social problems within the camps. He noted that some displaced girls were reportedly engaging in prostitution and drug abuse, which undermines cultural values. The Governor emphasized that his government would no longer tolerate indiscipline within the camps and announced plans to resettle displaced persons back to their ancestral homes. He also pledged to provide support to returnees, including housing, food, and financial assistance.
The infiltration of Boko Haram insurgents into IDP camps poses a significant challenge to the Nigerian government’s efforts to combat the militant group and provide relief to the displaced population.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
