Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Vice President Kashim Shettima has said the Federal Government has deployed additional tactical assets and intelligence-driven reinforcements to areas affected by the recent insurgent attacks in Borno State.
In a statement on Saturday, Shettima assured that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would not be intimidated by what he described as cowardly attempts by terrorists to undermine the peace and unity of the country.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians, stressing that the nation would not surrender any part of its territory to criminal elements.
“The events of the past few days are a painful reminder of the shadow that persists, but let it be known that we choose light over darkness and hope over despair,” the Vice President said.
He disclosed that the President had been fully briefed on the situation and had already directed a swift and comprehensive mobilisation of Nigeria’s security architecture to confront the threat.
“The Federal Government will not tolerate any sanctuary for those who seek to displace our people or occupy an inch of Nigerian soil,” Shettima said.
He assured that those responsible for the attacks would face the full weight of the law, describing the perpetrators as enemies of humanity.
“Our hearts go out to the affected families and to the brave soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” he added, pledging that the government would continue efforts to rescue abducted victims and reunite them with their families.
The Vice President also commended the resilience of the people of Borno and the leadership of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, while praising the courage and sacrifice of troops fighting insurgency on the frontlines.
“This madness will be brought to an end, not with empty words, but with the decisive and overwhelming force of the Nigerian state,” he said.
