Borno Hunters seek to join military in fight against Boko Haram in Sambisa forest

Hunters in Borno yesterday called on the military to allow them to join in the war against insurgents in Sambisa Forest.

Malam Mai-Gana Mai-Durma, the Borno emir of the hunters, made the appeal in Maiduguri while addressing newsmen, reported the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mai-Durma said that the call became imperative because the hunters are familiar with the terrain in the forest, the hideout and operational base of the terrorists.

“We are appealing to the military authorities to allow us join the fight against Boko Haram at the Sambisa forest.

“We are ready to pursue the terrorists because we know the terrain very well,” Mai-Durma said.

He said that the military should align them with the vigilance group, popularly known as the Civilian JTF, for effective results.

“We will overrun Sambisa in partnership with members of the Civilian JTF if given the opportunity.

“This will help to complement the efforts of the military in the anti-terrorism operation,” Mai-Durma said.

He lamented that hunters from the 27 local government areas of the state had been rendered idle by acts of terrorism perpetrated by the sect.

“Hunters from all the 27 Borno LGAs are all in Maiduguri with our leaders doing nothing at present because of Boko Haram.

“Rather than idling away, we will want to assist the military in crushing Boko Haram terrorists,” Mai-Durma said.

He also appealed to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Garbai, to assist in forwarding the request to the military authorities for consideration.


Credit: ThisDay