Maiduguri Explosion: Borno Community Calls For Relocation Of Giwa Barracks

Maiduguri explosion: Borno community calls for the relocation of Giwa barracks

By Madu Mohammed, Maiduguri

Following the threats poised by the Boko Haram Insurgents attack and the recent explosion, Residents of Bale/Galtimari community near Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital have called on the Federal Government Defense and Nigerian Army authorities, National Security Adviser, Governor Babagana Zulum and the National and State Houses of Assemblies to relocate the barracks as because of serious threats to the lives and property.

Briefing Journalists at a Press Briefing held at the Galtimari Primary school on Sunday and read by the Chairman Bale/Galtimari Consultative Forum Zannah Hassan Boguma Said “Today, we raise a matter of pressing concern to the people of Maiduguri and, especially to the communities of Galtimari, Fori, and 122, who live in close proximity to Giwa Barracks, a major military facility in Maiduguri.”

It could be recalled the Giwa Barracks has over time become a repeated target of attacks by Boko Haram insurgents, with significant incidents recorded in 2014, three separate attacks in 2015, and another in 2019, all aimed at freeing detained insurgents..

“It is therefore in the interest of public safety and strategic military effectiveness that we call on the following:, The Federal Government of Nigeria, The Defence Headquarters and the Nigerian Army The National Security Adviser, The Executive Governor of Borno State, The Borno State House of Assembly to take urgent and practical steps to relocate Giwa Barracks to the outskirts of Maiduguri, or to any suitably secure location far removed from dense civilian populations.’, the community said.

They said, This call is not political, it is driven by the need to protect lives, reduce civilian exposure to insurgent attacks, and allow the military to operate in a more controlled and secure environment.”

Zannah Boguma said, Just recently, an explosion occurred within the barracks thankfully, no lives were lost. However, this incident underscores the grave risk faced daily by over a million residents living around the barracks. Their lives, properties, and peace of mind are under constant threat, simply by virtue of their proximity to a high-value military target.”

“We recall with appreciation the motion raised by Hon. Satomi Ahmad, the, Honourable Member representing Jere Federal Constituency, before the National Assembly-calling for the relocation of Giwa Barracks. While this motion adopted by the House of Representatives, we are yet to see corresponding action, ” the Forum added.

“We begin by expressing our profound appreciation to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their unwavering sacrifices and commitment in the ongoing counter insurgency operations across Borno State and the North East region. Their bravery in the face of adversity continues to inspire hope in our collective pursuit of peace and security.”, the chairman said.

The Community extend their deepest gratitude and commendation to the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, for his unshaken resolve, tireless leadership, and dogged determination to bring lasting peace to the state, even in the midst of numerous challenges, as well as proactive engagement with communities, support to security agencies, and consistent stand for the safety and dignity of the people .

“Let it be made clear that we fully understand and support the need for strong military presence in our state; however, military installations of such strategic importance should not be located within residential neighborhoods, particularly those housing vulnerable civilian populations.”, the communities added.

They assured that they will continue to advocate peacefully and responsibly for this cause until the necessary action is taken..