The Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Idrisa Timta, has disclosed that the suicide bombers responsible for the tragic attack on Gwoza town on June 29, were not local insurgents but were imported to demonstrate that Boko Haram remains a relevant threat despite their significant defeats by Nigerian troops. This devastating attack resulted in the loss of 32 lives and left about 100 people injured.
In a public statement made on Sunday during a visit by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Southern Borno at the National Assembly, the Emir emphasised that the bombers did not originate from the notorious Sambisa Forest or the Mandara Mountain. Instead, they were brought into Gwoza with the explicit intention of asserting the group’s continued influence and to create fear among the residents and the government.
“The suicide bombers did not come from the Sambisa Forest or the Mandara Mountain but were imported to show the people and government that the terrorists were still relevant,” stated the Emir.
The senator’s visit was a gesture of condolence and support for the families of the deceased and the survivors of the attacks. The multiple suicide bombings targeted a wedding ceremony and various other locations within Gwoza town, amplifying the sense of loss and devastation among the community.
Despite the grievous impact of the attacks, the Emir maintained a resolute stance, stating, “That suicide bomb attacks cannot deter us. We lost our people but that is destiny. You just brainwashed young girls to come and detonate bomb. Let them come to Gwoza physically and see what we will do to them.”
He continued to assert that the nature of these attacks indicates the terrorists’ desperation and defeat, challenging them to confront the people of Gwoza directly.
“When people come to you and shoot and run away, that shows that they are defeated. When people come to you and detonate improvised explosive devices (IEDs), that also shows that they are defeated.
Let them come physically, we will go after them and catch them one by one. We have explored many ways to defend ourselves since we have a good government that is supporting us,” the Emir declared.
In light of the recent events, the Emir has called on the federal government to deploy additional military forces to Gwoza.
This measure, he believes, is crucial for the complete eradication of the terrorist threat and the restoration of peace and development in the region.
Senator Ndume echoed the Emir’s sentiments, highlighting the resilience of the Gwoza people.
“One of the purposes of visiting Gwoza was to sympathise and condole with the families of the victims and encourage the people to increase their resilience.
“We want to tell the world that Gwoza people are resilient and not deterred by what happened on June 29,” he stated.
The senator also commended the local population for their courage and determination to continue their agricultural activities despite the recent violence.
He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian military for their ongoing support and protection of the people, particularly while they work on their farms.
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