Borno, Adamawa Christian elders urge FG to deploy forest guards to Sambisa
By John Alechenu
ABUJA — Christian elders from Borno and Adamawa states have appealed to the Federal Government to immediately deploy forest guards to Sambisa Forest, arguing that the measure is crucial to flushing out terrorists and improving security across the North-East.
The call was made in Abuja on Monday following a three-day fasting and prayer programme organised by Marghi leaders, who gathered to seek divine intervention and the safe return of abducted schoolchildren from communities in Borno and Oyo states.
The elders urged the government to intensify security efforts by deploying forest guards throughout Sambisa Forest to curb the activities of insurgents that continue to threaten local communities.
Reports indicate that between 42 and 51 children, mainly toddlers and primary school pupils, were kidnapped by suspected Boko Haram fighters in Mussa town, encompassing the Mussa, Birri and Shikarkir communities in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State on May 15, 2026.
In a separate incident on the same day, armed bandits reportedly invaded Ahoro-Esinele and neighbouring communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting 46 residents, including schoolchildren, secondary school students and a toddler.
Speaking on behalf of the Marghi Community in Abuja, Elder Gambo Kadir said the security situation in many affected areas is worse than commonly reported, noting that numerous attacks never receive media attention.
He identified frontline local government areas such as Madagali, Gwoza, Askira/Uba and Chibok as communities that have endured recurring terrorist attacks for more than a decade.
Kadir stated that the recent kidnapping in Mussa reflects the ongoing insecurity that has continued to inflict pain and hardship on residents of the region.
He expressed concern over what he described as the government’s strategy in dealing with insurgency, alleging that terrorists are often rehabilitated rather than decisively confronted.
The community spokesman further disclosed that another abduction was recently recorded in Kirchiga town, Borno State, shortly after the Mussa incident.
The elders therefore called for stronger military presence in communities located around Sambisa Forest, especially in Madagali, Askira/Uba, Chibok and Gwoza.
They also appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen intelligence operations and deploy advanced technology to aid the tracking and rescue of kidnapped victims, stressing the need for swift action to secure the freedom of those still being held captive.