In a harrowing incident on Saturday evening, Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, narrowly escaped an ambush by suspected Boko Haram fighters. The attack occurred along the Jakana-Mainok expressway in Borno State as the governor’s security convoy returned from the 24th Convocation ceremony of the University of Maiduguri.
Tragically, one policeman lost his life, and six others sustained injuries during the ambush. Governor Buni, however, remained unharmed as he had stayed behind in Maiduguri for an upcoming official engagement in Abuja.
Governor Buni’s spokesperson, Mamman Mohammed, confirmed the attack, detailing the exchange of gunfire between the terrorists and the security escort. The injured personnel are reportedly responding well to treatment.
Sources reveal that the terrorists aimed not only at the governor but also at acquiring military and police weaponry in the convoy. The attackers targeted an MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) gun truck and another vehicle carrying police and DSS personnel. The well-prepared security forces responded with heavy fire, forcing the terrorists to retreat. Regrettably, one police officer lost his life, and several others were injured.
While the casualty figures for the terrorists remain unconfirmed, it is believed that they suffered substantial losses. After the attack, the security operatives safely returned to Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, while the wounded were transported to an undisclosed hospital. Unfortunately, some of the injured are reported to be in critical condition. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the region combating insurgent threats.
