Borno attacks: We won’t allow terrorists occupy Nigerian soil — Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that the Federal Government will not allow terrorists to occupy any part of Nigeria following renewed insurgent attacks in Borno State.

Shettima made the statement on Saturday while reacting to recent attacks, including abductions in Ngoshe community and coordinated assaults on military formations in Konduga, Marte, Jakana and Mainok.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu has already ordered a swift mobilisation of Nigeria’s security forces to confront the attackers and restore stability in the affected areas.

In a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said the government would not tolerate terrorists attempting to displace Nigerians.

“The events of the past few days are a painful reminder of the shadow that persists, but let it be known: we choose light over shadow, and hope over despair,” Shettima said.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been briefed and has already directed a swift and total mobilisation of our security architecture. The Federal Government will not tolerate any sanctuary for those who seek to displace our people or occupy an inch of Nigerian soil.”

The Vice President said the government would not be intimidated by what he described as cowardly attacks by insurgents.

He disclosed that additional tactical assets and intelligence-driven reinforcements had already been deployed to support ongoing military operations in the North-East.

“We are not just fighting a war. We are defending the very soul of our humanity against those who preach a toxic rhetoric of hate, and we will not be cowed by their gory acts,” he added.

Shettima assured that those responsible for the attacks would face the full wrath of the law and pledged that the government would continue efforts to rescue abducted victims.

“Our hearts bleed for the families and the brave soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. This administration will not rest until abducted citizens safely reunite with their families,” he said.

The Vice President also commended the resilience of the people and government of Borno State led by Babagana Zulum, as well as the efforts of troops fighting insurgents on the frontline.