Authorities in Yobe State have resolved to strengthen security measures following renewed attacks linked to Boko Haram insurgents in parts of the state.
The decision was announced on Wednesday during the 18th Security Council Meeting held at the Government House in Damaturu, where the Deputy Governor, Idi Barde Gubana, represented Governor Mai Mala Buni.
According to Gubana, the emergency session became necessary after a series of assaults on military facilities and growing reports that insurgents were extorting money from farmers and residents in affected communities.
He identified Yunusari, Geidam and Tarmuwa local government areas among places where terrorists were allegedly forcing locals to pay illegal levies before accessing their farmlands and businesses.
Gubana said the state government was determined to end the activities of criminal groups threatening public safety and peaceful living across Yobe.
He explained that discussions at the meeting also focused on other security concerns affecting communities, including clashes between farmers and herders, burglary and related crimes.
The deputy governor noted that although the state had witnessed a period of relative calm in recent months, recent developments had made it necessary for security agencies and residents to remain alert.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that protecting citizens remained a top priority of the government.
Gubana also sympathised with families of soldiers and police personnel who lost their lives during the recent attack on the Northeast Theatre Training School in Buni Yadi, located in Gujba Local Government Area.
