The unfortunate incident will not make the Governor to doubt the capacity of the gallant and patriotic personnel of the Nigerian armed forces, who have dedicated their lives fighting for peace and the freedom of Borno people.
Kashim Shettima, Governor of Borno State, says the faction of the insurgent group that attacked him are only seeking to attract local and global media attention to themselves.
Shettima was attacked on Tuesday, on his way to Gamboru in continuation of campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections.
Three people were confirmed dead in the attack.
Shettima said he would visit the families of those killed to commiserate with them.
Speaking through Isa Gusau, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Shettima said the Boko Haram sect that attacked him is only seeking local and global media attention in order to sustain propaganda strategy and to instill fear in citizens and gallant troops.
He said: “Governor Kashim Shettima mourns, with the deepest thoughts and heartfelt condolences, the demise of some fellow citizens, brothers, associates and loyal supporters following an unfortunate ambush of some vehicles in his convoy by suspected insurgents on Tuesday evening on Gamboru Road, headquarters of Ngala Local Government Area.
“Governor Shettima, who returned at night yesterday, will meet families of those affected by the attack. The governor will also meet some security heads to review the incident and, more importantly, to continue his determined collaboration with all security agencies and volunteers in remaining committed to the ongoing fight against Boko Haram.”
Expressing confidence in the strength of the Nigerian Army to eradicate the insurgent group in the country, Shettima said: “The unfortunate incident will not make the Governor to doubt the capacity of the gallant and patriotic personnel of the Nigerian armed forces, who have dedicated their lives fighting for peace and the freedom of Borno people.
“The Governor has absolute confidence in the armed forces and given his access to raw updates, he is aware of the successes being recorded by the armed forces despite Tuesday’s and previous attacks by the insurgents.
“For one success recorded by the insurgents, the armed forces record dozens against them. The Governor remains optimistic and urges citizens to be calm, prayerful and supportive of the Nigerian armed forces and volunteers through means that include (as they have been doing) the sharing of useful information.”