Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger state has disclosed that Boko Haram terrorists have established territory in parts of the state.
The governor also said the terrorists has already hoisted their flag in Kaure village from where they have made spontaneous incursion into more than 50 villages in the past three weeks.
Speaking to journalists during a visit to an Internally Displaced Persons’ camp (IDPs)’ camp in IBB primary school Minna, the governor lamented that over 50 villages had been overrun by the terrorists/ bandits and deserted by original inhabitants.
He said: “I am confirming that there are Boko Haram elements around Kaure in Shiroro local government of Niger state. They have taken over the territory. They have installed their flag. I am confirming to you now that they have taken over the wives of people by force.”
Describing the situation in the state as critical and pathetic, Governor Sani Bello said over 3,000 villagers escaped to Minna Sunday night while several others were in other camps in Gwada and other places.
“Majority of the displaced persons will have to remain in this camp in Minna because their villages have been taken over by Boko Haram terrorists/ bandits. Their wives have been seized from them and forcefully attached to Boko Haram elements,” he said.
The governor said the Boko Haram terrorist were trying to make Kaure their home and headquarters like they did in Sambisa forest, warning that while Sambisa forest is several kilometers away from Abuja, Kaure is only two hours drive to Abuja.
On efforts by his administration to curb the trend, the governor said: “I have been engaging the federal government, and unfortunately, it has gotten to this stage, and if care is not taken even Abuja is not safe. We have