Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has condemned attacks on the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during their recent campaigns in the state.

Zulum, who warned parties against political violence in the state, directed the Borno State Commissioner of Police to investigate the attacks and ensure that all culprits are arrested and prosecuted.

The governor made this known via a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesman Isa Gusau.

“I have received reports on renewed acts of political violence in the state. I strongly condemn these extremely unnecessary acts of violence and hereby direct the Commissioner of Police and the DSS to immediately investigate and ensure anyone involved is made to face the full wrath of the law.”

“I am directing heads of security agencies under the Borno State security council to immediately convene a meeting with critical representatives of all major political parties, particularly the APC and PDP, get them to sign undertakings and strikingly warn against all acts of violence with punitive measures rolled out for any culprit, especially politicians who might be instigating violence, no matter how highly placed they might be,” he stated.

Governor Zulum, who urged supporters of all political parties not to disseminate false statements that can insight violence, enjoined the people to continue to promote peace in the state.

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“I have always been against political thuggery and for us in Borno State, we have seen enough violence from our over 12 years of insurgency. Instigating political violence is simply being ungrateful to Allah for the peace He is granting us after over 12 years of prayers for His divine intervention.

“Many soldiers, policemen, personnel of the DSS and paramilitary as well as our volunteers in the Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes have given their lives in battles and many are still in the front lines, towards full restoration of peace in Borno State. Insha’Allah, we will not allow anyone reverse the supreme sacrifices of our armed forces and volunteers.”

“With the peace gained so far across Borno State, we have safely resettled close to one million internally displaced persons and refugees in rebuilt communities. Our focus, which is very firm, is to sustain our ongoing construction of 10,000 new houses and rehabilitation of thousands of destroyed houses to continue our safe and dignified resettlement, alongside the provision of livelihood support so that our fellow citizens can eventually cater for themselves through productive agriculture and other businesses in ways they can live without depending on the food and cash aides we are currently giving based on our routine humanitarian needs assessments for all communities,” Zulum added.

The governor further urged all stakeholders of political parties, particularly, party executives, candidates, and campaign teams to desist from any form of violence and campaign peacefully in Borno State.

“For me, electoral victory should be one that is earned not one that is forced through acts of violence,” he stated.

The Star