Tragedy struck on the Maiduguri-Damaturu Road as suspected Boko Haram insurgents launched an attack on the convoy of Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of two policemen, while two others sustained injuries.
The incident occurred on Saturday shortly after the governor had attended the 24th convocation of the University of Maiduguri in Borno State. Eyewitnesses, who were part of the entourage but preferred to remain anonymous, revealed that the attackers unleashed gunfire on the convoy from both sides of the highway, specifically targeting the lead vehicle.
One eyewitness shared the harrowing experience, stating, “We narrowly escaped death today. The convoy was attacked between Beneshiekh and Mainok, a distance of less than sixty kilometers to Damaturu after attending the 24th convocation of the University of Maiduguri. The insurgents opened fire on the convoy from both sides of the road, killing one policeman instantly, while the other succumbed to his wounds later due to excessive bleeding. In fact, our departure from Maiduguri was delayed until around 6:00 pm.”
Fortunately, Governor Buni was not present in the convoy during the attack as he had traveled to Abuja for an official engagement. It is noteworthy that this incident marks the first time the Yobe State governor’s convoy has been targeted since the inception of the Boko Haram insurgency twelve years ago.
Security personnel and emergency response teams swiftly arrived at the scene to address the situation and provide medical assistance to the injured officers. The loss of these brave members of the police force serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in combating terrorism and maintaining peace in the region.
The governor’s office has expressed deep condolences to the families of the fallen policemen and extended prayers for the swift recovery of the injured officers. Efforts are underway to investigate the attack and identify those responsible for this callous act of violence.
As the nation continues to confront the threat of terrorism, it is imperative that concerted and unwavering efforts are made to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, particularly those who selflessly dedicate themselves to protecting others.
The government, security agencies, and the entire community remain resolute in their determination to overcome these challenges, striving for lasting peace and security in the region.
